Archive · 27 Nov 2025
FIFA and Swiss Government Partner to Build Football Infrastructure in Middle East
FIFA and the Swiss government are working together to build small football fields, called FIFA Arena mini-pitches, in the West Bank.
The Swiss government is giving money to help build these fields and support football in the area.
The first two fields will open in 2026, and there are plans to build more in Palestine and Israel.
FIFA's president, Gianni Infantino, said that football can help bring people together and give hope.
The fields will have training programs for kids and will be safe places to play.
FIFA is also working on building many more of these fields around the world.
FIFA and the Swiss government are collaborating to build FIFA Arena mini-pitches in the West Bank, with the first two set to open in 2026.
The Swiss government has contributed CHF 120,000 to the initiative, which will also support a long-term commitment to restoring access to football in the region.
The goal is to eventually install eight additional mini-pitches in Palestine and Israel, fostering inclusion and personal development through football.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino emphasized the role of football in uniting communities and giving hope, particularly in challenging contexts.
The global FIFA Arena initiative aims to deliver at least 1,000 mini-pitches by 2030, with 30 already inaugurated in 15 countries since March 2025.
- Who
- FIFA and the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA)
- What
- Building football infrastructure in the Middle East
- When
- First pitches to open in 2026, with additional pitches planned
- Where
- West Bank, Palestine, and Israel
- Why
- To support, unite, and give hope through football, fostering inclusion and personal development
- Initiative
- FIFA Arena mini-pitches in West Bank
- Funding
- CHF 120,000 from Swiss government
- Timeline
- First pitches to open in 2026
- Goal
- Install 8 additional mini-pitches in Palestine and Israel
- Training
- Dedicated training program for children
- Global Initiative
- 1,000 mini-pitches by 2030
- Pitches Inaugurated
- 30 in 15 countries since March 2025
- Member Associations
- 59 signed up to participate