The partnership, which was sealed through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), will provide concessional loans worth up to Ksh129 billion (USD 1 billion) to help developing nations build and upgrade modern sports stadiums and related infrastructure.
The programme aims to support FIFA Member Associations, including Kenya, that have clear plans to use sports as a driver for national development.
The loans will be used to construct FIFA-certified stadiums, improve existing facilities and boost the quality of sports infrastructure in countries that need it most.
The SFD Chief Executive Officer, Sultan bin Abdulrahman Al-Marshad, said the initiative is not just about building stadiums but also about empowering communities.
He explained that sports can bring people together, create opportunities and inspire young people.
According to him, investing in modern sports facilities will help countries unlock new potential in tourism, talent development and job creation.
“Sport is more than competition. It is a catalyst for development and inclusion. Through concessional financing, we are helping countries build the infrastructure they need to empower young people and strengthen communities,” Al-Marshad said.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino also praised the partnership, calling it a “crucial step” toward giving all Member Associations the infrastructure needed to grow the game.
Infantino said the funding will help create better spaces for training, hosting competitions and developing football talent in developing nations.
“The MoU with the Saudi Fund for Development will provide up to USD 1 billion in loans to finance the construction and enhancement of FIFA-certified stadiums. This is a crucial step in making football truly global,” Infantino said.
Kenya’s sports sector stands to gain significantly from the programme. The country has been working to upgrade stadiums and improve sports facilities in recent years.
President William Ruto’s administration has shown strong interest in developing football and other sports to create jobs, support young athletes and boost national pride.
One of the key achievements of Ruto’s government was the successful co-hosting of the 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN).
Kenya renovated several stadiums to prepare for the tournament, and the final match took place at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, in the presence of Gianni Infantino.
This event helped Kenya showcase its ability to host major competitions and highlighted the need for continued investment.
With the new Saudi-FIFA partnership, Kenya can apply for concessional loans to expand ongoing projects or start new ones.
This could include building new stadiums, upgrading county-level sports complexes and improving training centres for young talent.
Football Kenya Federation (FKF) President Hussein Mohammed welcomed the agreement and expressed hope that Kenya will be among the countries selected for funding.
He said the investment will help the nation strengthen its football structure and create more opportunities for young athletes.
“I appreciate the support from the Saudi Fund for Development. This kind of commitment helps developing Member Associations like FKF invest in modern, FIFA-certified infrastructure. It strengthens football ecosystems, creates opportunities for our youth and lays the foundation for long-term growth,” Hussein said.
Besides improving stadiums, the programme is expected to create jobs for contractors, engineers, suppliers, vendors and hospitality workers.
It will also benefit local businesses surrounding the sports facilities. The modern stadiums will offer safe and high-quality spaces where young people can train, compete and develop their skills.
The MoU positions Kenya well to attract more international investment and support from development partners, private organisations and regional bodies.
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