SHARM EL-SHEIKH, EGYPT — Following a peace summit in Sharm El-Sheikh, FIFA President Gianni Infantino announced the organization’s commitment to rebuilding all football facilities in Gaza as part of broader post-war reconstruction efforts. Attending the summit alongside over 20 world leaders, Infantino emphasized the importance of football in fostering unity and hope, particularly for children. He stated, “Football’s role has to be to support, to unite, to give hope,” and pledged FIFA’s support to restore facilities destroyed during the conflict.
FIFA plans to collaborate with the Palestinian Football Association (PFA) to rebuild damaged infrastructure and launch initiatives such as new pitches, youth programs, and “FIFA Arenas.” Infantino expressed that football brings hope to children and is very important for the region’s recovery.
Meanwhile, the PFA continues to urge FIFA to suspend Israel over alleged discrimination and the operation of Israeli clubs in occupied territories. The governing body had referred the issue to its disciplinary and legal departments but has yet to make a formal decision. FIFA Vice-President Victor Montagliani affirmed that the case is still under review, with no updates currently available.
This development underscores FIFA’s role in post-conflict recovery and its commitment to using football as a tool for peace and unity in the Middle East.
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