FIFA launches $50M fund to tackle global issues beyond football

FIFA Unveils $50 Million Legacy Fund to Support Global Social Programs

In a groundbreaking move, FIFA has announced the launch of a $50 million legacy fund aimed at supporting social programs worldwide. The initiative, revealed on Wednesday, is a collaboration between FIFA, Qatar (the 2022 World Cup hosts), the World Health Organization (WHO), the World Trade Organization (WTO), and the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR). This fund is set to make a significant impact on some of the most pressing global issues, from refugee support to women’s economic empowerment.

Back in November 2022, FIFA had pledged that proceeds from the World Cup would be used to assist “some of the most vulnerable people in the world.” Now, two years later, that promise is being fulfilled in a big way. FIFA President Gianni Infantino emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, “FIFA is taking the concept of a legacy fund to the next level in terms of reach and impact by tackling key priorities such as refugees, occupational health, education, and football development.”

What Is the Legacy Fund?

For those unfamiliar, legacy funds from previous World Cups have typically been used to develop football in the host nation. However, this time, FIFA is expanding its vision. The $50 million fund represents approximately 1% of the commercial revenue generated from the 2022 World Cup. Instead of focusing solely on football, the fund will address broader social issues, making it a game-changer in how sports organizations contribute to global development.

Key Initiatives Under the Fund

The legacy fund will support several critical programs, including:

• WHO’s “Beat the Heat” Initiative: This program aims to protect high-risk individuals from extreme heat, a growing concern in many parts of the world. Qatar, which faced criticism for its treatment of foreign workers in extreme conditions during World Cup preparations, is now part of a solution to address this issue.
• UNHCR Partnership: FIFA will work with the UN Refugee Agency to enhance access to basic services for refugees. Filippo Grandi, the UN High Commissioner for Refugees, praised the initiative, saying, “This fund will take the World Cup legacy beyond stadiums and screens to millions displaced by war, conflict, and persecution. It will enable life-saving assistance and long-term opportunities for uprooted people, helping them rebuild safely and in dignity.”
• Women’s Economic Empowerment: The fund has pledged $16.6 million to the Women Exporters in the Digital Economy (WEIDE) Fund, with an initial deposit of $5 million. This initiative, launched by the WTO and the International Trade Centre (ITC), aims to support women entrepreneurs in the digital economy.

Football Development Still a Priority

While the legacy fund is branching out into social programs, football development remains a core focus. Qatar’s Aspire Academy will collaborate with FIFA’s Talent Development Scheme, led by Arsene Wenger, to identify young talent in remote areas of developing countries. This initiative ensures that the beautiful game continues to grow and thrive in underserved regions.

Addressing Controversies

It’s impossible to discuss this legacy fund without acknowledging the controversies surrounding the 2022 World Cup. Qatar faced intense scrutiny over its treatment of foreign workers, with many raising concerns about exploitation and unsafe working conditions. While Qatar has denied these allegations, the legacy fund’s focus on occupational health and refugee support could be seen as a step toward addressing some of these criticisms.

A Bold Step Forward

FIFA’s $50 million legacy fund is a bold and ambitious initiative that goes beyond the traditional scope of sports organizations. By addressing global issues like climate change, refugee support, and gender equality, FIFA is setting a new standard for how sports can drive social change. As Gianni Infantino put it, this fund is about taking the World Cup’s legacy “beyond stadiums and screens.”

While the fund’s success will ultimately depend on its implementation and impact, there’s no denying that this is a significant step forward. It’s a reminder that sports, at their best, can be a powerful force for good in the world.