Davos (TDI): FIFA’s President, Gianni Infantino, has announced plans to visit Pakistan “very soon” and pledged stronger support for developing the country’s football landscape, describing the country as a “great football nation” during an interview at the World Economic Forum in Davos.
Speaking to Pakistan TV Digital on the sidelines of the high-profile global summit, Infantino reaffirmed his commitment to working with Pakistani authorities and football officials to elevate the sport’s stature both domestically and on the Asian stage.
He said he had given his word to Pakistan’s Prime Minister, Shehbaz Sharif, that the visit would happen in the near future, underscoring the importance of close collaboration between FIFA and Pakistan’s football establishment.
Infantino’s remarks came against the backdrop of renewed energy within Pakistan’s football community. Over the past year, efforts to strengthen ties with FIFA have gained momentum, with Pakistani lawmaker Syeda Amnah Batool recently appointed to FIFA’s Institutional Reforms Committee.
FIFA’s president also highlighted the role of the Pakistan Football Federation’s new leadership, which he praised for its enthusiastic approach toward reform and growth.
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“We need to bring Pakistan to the head, to the top of Asia for sure,” Infantino said, signaling FIFA’s long-term ambition to see Pakistan compete more strongly in continental competitions.
Earlier engagement between FIFA and Pakistani football stakeholders included a three-day visit by FIFA Senior Vice President Sheikh Salman bin Ibrahim Al Khalifa in November 2025, during which discussions focused on infrastructure development and future collaboration.
Football enjoys widespread popularity among Pakistan’s youth, where grassroots enthusiasm often outpaces institutional support.
While cricket has long dominated the sports landscape as the country’s most lucrative and high-profile game, football has maintained a strong following in schools, local leagues, and community clubs across major cities.
Infantino’s commitment to visiting Pakistan and supporting strategic development initiatives comes as a welcome signal to players, administrators, and fans eager to see the sport flourish.
