The International Olympic Committee says FIFA’s $75 million Gaza football recovery plan is consistent with its global sports development mission

THE International Olympic Committee has stated that FIFA’s support for a major investment programme in Gaza aligns with the expected role of an international sports federation.

An IOC spokesperson confirmed the committee had been in contact with FIFA regarding the initiative.

“We understand that FIFA is supporting, through football, a comprehensive sport recovery investment programme in Gaza, Palestine, by providing sporting infrastructure, education and elite development proposals,” the spokesperson said.

“This is entirely in keeping with the role of an International Sport Federation.”

The statement follows FIFA President Gianni Infantino’s announcement of a USD 75 million fund to rebuild football facilities destroyed during the Gaza conflict.

Infantino made the announcement at the first meeting of the Board of Peace in Washington alongside US President Donald Trump.

IOC President Kirsty Coventry said on Friday she was unaware Infantino had attended that meeting.

The world football chief appeared on stage wearing a red cap featuring “USA” and the numbers 45-47, referencing Trump’s two non-consecutive presidencies.

Infantino has appeared publicly with Trump on several occasions.

The United States is co-hosting this year’s FIFA World Cup along with Mexico and Canada.

FIFA awarded Trump its inaugural peace prize in December 2025.

Infantino said at the time the award recognised the US president’s “exceptional and extraordinary” actions to promote global peace and unity.

The IOC noted its own development arm, Olympic Solidarity, has also been supporting sport development in the region.

 The Sun Malaysia