Washington: United States President Donald Trump announced that FIFA will help raise USD 75 million to rebuild sports facilities in the Gaza Strip during the inaugural meeting of the Board of Peace in Washington on Thursday, February 19.
Trump said the initiative aims to restore stadiums and football infrastructure damaged during the Israeli war in Gaza, while promoting youth engagement and community recovery.
The event was attended by FIFA President Gianni Infantino, who highlighted football’s global influence and its potential to support stability and development in conflict-affected regions.
“I’m pleased to announce that FIFA will be helping to raise a total of USD 75 million for projects in Gaza,” Trump said, adding that the focus would be on creating opportunities for young people through sport, AFP reported.
Investment and development plan
According to Reuters, FIFA signed a partnership agreement with the Board of Peace to attract funding from international leaders and institutions for long-term development programmes.
The plan includes building 50 mini-pitches near schools and residential areas, five full-size football grounds, a modern training academy and a 20,000-seat national stadium in Gaza. The programme will also encourage job creation, organised leagues for boys and girls, community participation and support for local businesses.
Infantino described the agreement as a major step towards using football as a tool for recovery in regions affected by conflict.
The Board of Peace, established by the Trump administration, is initially focused on Gaza’s reconstruction following a ceasefire negotiated with regional mediators. However, progress is expected to depend on issues such as Hamas disarmament, Israeli troop withdrawal, reconstruction funding and the delivery of humanitarian aid.
In a related context, these moves are facing human rights criticisms; reports indicate that the FairSquare association filed a complaint with FIFA ‘s Ethics Committee on December 8, 2025.
The complaint accuses Gianni Infantino of violating the principle of political neutrality stipulated in Article 15 of the FIFA Code of Ethics, due to his apparent political alignment with the US administration.
