Gianni Infantino announces new FIFA under-15 World Cup

18:51

By: Azzat Manal

Gianni Infantino announces new FIFA under-15 World Cup

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has announced plans to launch a new Under-15 World Cup, describing the initiative as part of a broader effort to expand football opportunities beyond the sport's traditional major nations.

The new tournament is expected to bring together young players from across FIFA's 211 member associations. Infantino said the competition would be held for the first time this year and would be designed as a major football festival for children.

According to the FIFA president, more than 4,000 young players could take part in the initiative, giving children from different regions an opportunity to compete, interact and experience international football at an early age.

The announcement comes as Infantino continues to defend his leadership of FIFA amid criticism from some parts of the football community. He has repeatedly argued that the global game needs to reduce the gap between the most developed football nations and countries with fewer resources and less established football infrastructure.

Speaking during a meeting in the Dominican Republic with representatives of Caribbean football under the CONCACAF structure, Infantino emphasized the importance of dialogue among FIFA's members. He said that different views should be expressed openly and that all football associations should have an opportunity to make their voices heard.

The FIFA president also acknowledged the contribution of the world's leading football nations. According to Infantino, major football countries have invested heavily in developing their teams and competitions, and their continued growth should be recognized. However, he argued that these countries should not prevent other nations from developing their own football systems.

Infantino's position reflects one of the central themes of his presidency: increasing investment and opportunities across all regions of world football. FIFA has expanded funding and development programs in recent years, with the objective of improving infrastructure, youth development and access to the sport.

The proposed Under-15 World Cup fits into this broader strategy by focusing on young players and providing them with an international platform. A competition involving representatives from all FIFA member associations could also create opportunities for countries that rarely participate in major international tournaments.

Infantino insisted that FIFA's decisions must continue to follow the organization's statutes and established procedures. He stressed that decisions should be taken democratically by member associations, the FIFA Council and the relevant governing bodies.

At the same time, speculation has continued over potential candidates who could eventually challenge Infantino for the FIFA presidency. Among the names discussed in football circles is Nasser Al-Khelaifi, president of Paris Saint-Germain, although any future succession process would depend on FIFA's electoral rules and the official presentation of candidates.

The announcement of the new youth tournament therefore comes at a significant moment for global football. Beyond creating another international competition, FIFA is presenting the project as an opportunity to give young players from different parts of the world greater access to international football and to narrow the development gap between established football powers and emerging nations.