FIFA launches major development plan to transform Congolese football

FIFA President Gianni Infantino met Congolese President Félix Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo in New York on 25 September to discuss new football development plans in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Infantino described Tshisekedi as a “true football enthusiast” and outlined several projects aimed at transforming football in the country.

The plans include building stadiums, training centres, arenas, and pitches, along with launching new development programmes for youth academies and football schools.

Infantino also discussed the current state of the Congolese Football Association (FECOFA), which remains under a Normalisation Committee.

He urged Tshisekedi to support free and transparent elections to restore stable and sustainable governance within the federation.

FIFA’s collaboration with the DRC aims to provide modern sporting infrastructure that meets global standards and supports long-term growth.

The plan includes certified training courses to strengthen the skills of coaches, referees, officials, and football administrators.

FIFA intends to work closely with Congolese football academies and schools, offering them direct support to improve player development structures.

Through these efforts, the country will also gain access to FIFA Forward, a global programme that provides funding and strategic support to national associations seeking to grow and professionalise football.

This partnership offers Congolese football a chance to rebuild and modernise its foundations while giving young players more opportunities to develop.

The new facilities and training initiatives aim to raise the quality of domestic football and improve the country’s competitiveness on the international stage.

FIFA’s involvement also seeks to help Congolese football attract greater investment and integrate more closely into global football networks.

The emphasis on governance, transparency, and infrastructure reflects a long-term vision for the sport in the DRC.

Infantino believes the collaboration will unlock the country’s footballing potential and provide the necessary resources to nurture future generations of talent.

The project will also help the DRC increase its visibility in international competitions and strengthen its representation within global football structures.

For the Congolese government, the partnership marks an opportunity to align football development with broader national goals, including youth engagement and social development.

Improved facilities and expanded training opportunities are expected to create more pathways for young athletes to pursue professional careers.

The initiative builds on FIFA’s broader mission to support football development across Africa and promote sustainable growth through infrastructure, education, and governance reforms.

The focus on youth academies and grassroots development reflects FIFA’s strategy to strengthen national football from the ground up.

Infantino reaffirmed FIFA’s commitment to working with Congolese authorities to deliver these projects and support the country’s footballing ambitions.

Both leaders agreed that transforming football in the DRC requires collaboration, transparency, and a shared vision for the sport’s future.

The partnership represents a significant milestone for Congolese football and a major step towards modernisation.

With FIFA’s backing, the DRC now has a roadmap to professionalise its football ecosystem, elevate its domestic leagues, and enhance its presence in global football.