FIFA and PFF forge alliance to overhaul Pakistan’s grassroots football and modernize statutes
FIFA and PFF forge alliance to overhaul Pakistan’s grassroots football and modernize statutes
By Nawaz Gohar ; On the sidelines of the high-profile United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) Week in New York, Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) President Syed Mohsen Gilani held a crucial bilateral meeting with FIFA President Gianni Infantino to map out a transformative roadmap for football in Pakistan.
During the meeting, FIFA Chief Gianni Infantino expressed strong appreciation for the rapid strides made by the PFF under Gilani’s leadership over the past 15 months, commending both the structural progress and the notable performances of Pakistan’s national teams.
A major highlight of the discussion was FIFA’s commitment to physical infrastructure development in the country. Impressed by Gilani’s forward-looking vision, Infantino confirmed that he will personally visit Pakistan for the official inauguration of the upcoming FIFA Arena.
Constitutional Alignment: Infantino underscored the importance of passing key constitutional amendments to fully align PFF statutes with FIFA and Asian Football Confederation (AFC) guidelines.
Youth & Grassroots Expansion: Both leaders agreed on long-term strategies to widen youth opportunities, improve talent identification, and expand grassroots football across all regions of Pakistan.
FIFA Backing: The global governing body reaffirmed its unreserved technical and institutional backing for Pakistan’s football governance.
Speaking on the outcome of the meeting, PFF President Syed Mohsen Gilani stated: “Our aim is to take football to every corner of Pakistan, empower our youth, and create a clear pathway for talented players to represent the country on the highest international stages. Building a sustainable, inclusive framework remains our topmost priority.”
Gilani further expressed his gratitude to FIFA for its unwavering confidence, noting that global collaboration will drastically accelerate domestic development.
Concluding the meeting, Infantino extended his warm wishes to the Pakistan national team for the ongoing FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026 and highlighted his anticipation for Pakistan’s engagement in the upcoming FIFA U-15 World Cup and Festival 2026.
