A special discussion was held regarding a comprehensive program aimed at revitalizing football in Sri Lanka. The initiative focuses on securing international support, developing infrastructure, and honing the skills of players—all with the vision of transforming football into the most popular sport in the country within the next four years.
In this regard, a meeting took place between FIFA President Gianni Infantino and Sri Lanka’s Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, Hon. Sunil Kumara Gamage, on October 26, 2026, in Baku, Azerbaijan. Mr. Jaswar Umar, President of the Football Federation of Sri Lanka (FFSL), also participated in this discussion. During the discussion, the participants deliberated extensively on future measures to strengthen football in Sri Lanka at the national level and elevate it to the international stage. Key topics included the provision of necessary facilities for sports development and the expansion of football across all regions of the country.
Speaking at the meeting, Minister of Sports, Mr. Sunil Kumara Gamage, expressed the Sri Lankan government’s sincere gratitude for the extensive support provided by FIFA toward the development of Sri Lanka’s national football team and youth squads. The Minister also highlighted the significant progress achieved in the sport within the country over the past two years.
Furthermore, the Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to working closely with FIFA and the Football Federation of Sri Lanka to build upon this progress and accelerate the development of football throughout the nation. FIFA President Gianni Infantino reaffirmed FIFA’s commitment to elevating football in Sri Lanka to the next level.
Particular attention was focused on the construction of a modern football stadium in Sri Lanka that meets international standards. Furthermore, discussions were held regarding the enhancement of sports infrastructure—a vital component for the long-term development of football in the country.
To realize this development vision, FIFA intends to provide financial assistance amounting to 25 million US dollars over the next four-year development cycle. This funding is earmarked for the development of Sri Lanka’s national football team, youth teams, women’s football, as well as the skills of coaches and referees.
A Football Stadium for Every District
Plans are underway to implement a major program to expand sports infrastructure, with the goal of bringing football closer to children and youth in every part of the country. Accordingly, the construction of football stadiums is set to commence in every district across Sri Lanka, starting next year. This initiative aims to broaden access to the sport and create more opportunities for talented athletes—both male and female—to further develop their skills.
In alignment with this national vision, the Football Federation of Sri Lanka (FFSL) also plans to develop nearly 40 football stadiums by the end of 2031, working through the leagues affiliated with the Federation.
This initiative extends beyond the mere construction of stadiums. Its broader objective is to establish an environment where children with a passion for football can pursue their dreams, young athletes can elevate their talents to the national stage, and communities can come together around the sport.
A New Era for Sri Lankan Football
These discussions are considered a significant step toward the implementation of a coordinated, national-level initiative involving the Government of Sri Lanka, FIFA, and the Football Federation of Sri Lanka. The primary objectives of this initiative include expanding participation in football, strengthening sports infrastructure, developing the skills of athletes, and elevating the overall standard of football in Sri Lanka.
It is anticipated that the series of development programs, set to commence next year, will further broaden access to football for people across every region of the country. Furthermore, this will open up a wealth of new opportunities—not only for athletes, but also for coaches, referees, and the entire community associated with the sport.
These discussions have further reinforced the aspiration to chart a new course for Sri Lankan football by integrating international support, national-level commitment, and long-term development planning.
At the conclusion of this productive meeting—which focused on the future of football in Sri Lanka—FIFA President Gianni Infantino and the Minister of Sports, Mr. Sunil Kumara Gamage, engaged in a cordial exchange of views. The objective of this shared vision is to build a future that makes football more popular among the people of Sri Lanka, while paving the way for a talented new generation to achieve success on the international stage.
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