FIFA plans $ 25 m boost for Sri Lankan football

Wednesday, 28 October 2026 00:12 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Sports and Youth Affairs Minister Sunil Kumara Gamage (right) with FIFA President Gianni Infantino during their meeting in Baku, Azerbaijan. FFSL President Jaswar Umar is also present

FIFA plans to provide about $ 25 million to support Sri Lankan football over the next four-year cycle, with infrastructure, youth programs and the national team among the priorities discussed at a meeting in Baku, Azerbaijan.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino met Youth Affairs and Sports Minister Sunil Kumara Gamage and Football Federation of Sri Lanka (FFSL) President Jaswar Umar to discuss a development roadmap aimed at making football the country’s most popular sport within four years. National Sports Council Chairman Priyantha Ekanayake and High Performance Centre lead Prasanna Jayalath were also part of the Sri Lankan delegation.

The funding is expected to cover the national team, youth development, women’s football, coaches and referees. Talks centred on widening access to the game nationwide, modernising facilities and creating pathways for young players to progress to higher levels.

Infrastructure proposals include an international-standard stadium, wider facilities across the island and football grounds in every district, with work on the latter expected to begin next year. Separately, the FFSL plans to develop around 40 grounds through its member leagues by the end of 2031, according to the program outlined.

The parties also discussed a National High-Performance Centre, with FIFA expected to provide technical expertise and infrastructure support in collaboration with the Sports Ministry and the FFSL. The centre is intended to strengthen player development, coaching standards and professional opportunities for talented footballers.

Infantino said FIFA was ready to work with the Government and the FFSL on infrastructure projects and development initiatives. He added that youth competitions and festivals were key to identifying and developing talent, giving children the chance to improve their skills and represent their country.

Gamage thanked FIFA for its continued support for the national team and youth football programs, and reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to accelerating the sport’s development.