FIFA continues to demonstrate its commitment to the growth of football worldwide through multiple development programs that support its 211 member associations. These efforts include both financial support and technical guidance for projects aimed at strengthening the sport’s structures, from grassroots football to elite refereeing, with a clear focus on inclusion and equity.

In recent weeks, Guatemala, Honduras, and Argentina have hosted key activities within this global plan. From the implementation of training programs to the consolidation of inclusive tournaments, these initiatives reflect the joint efforts between FIFA and local associations to make football a tool for both athletic and social development in their respective territories.

Talent Academies, training centers, and women’s football

Guatemala was a pioneer in hosting the first Talent Academy event by FIFA in the Concacaf region, a significant step within the Talent Development Scheme (TDS). Within this framework, the seminar “Building the Football We Want” was also held, where FIFA instructors trained 80 grassroots coaches with the goal of creating a strong developmental identity. This experience was highlighted by Arsène Wenger, FIFA’s Chief of Global Football Development, as an example of Guatemala’s commitment to young talent.

In Honduras, the TDS program continues to expand with the opening of new training centers in various municipalities, including the recent one in Roatán. During the visit of FIFA representatives to Campo Sol in Choluteca, practical activities and matches for both boys and girls Under-11 were held to assess progress and strengthen the TDS model. Further south, Argentina celebrated the fourth edition of the Federal Cup for women’s football, a tournament funded by FIFA’s Forward Program, which brought together the top teams from across the country and featured the presence of Jill Ellis, FIFA’s Director of Football, who reaffirmed the importance of expanding the reach of women’s football to all corners of the country.