FIFA plans US$25 million support package to boost Sri Lankan football

Daily Mirror reports that FIFA is considering around US$25 million for Sri Lankan football during a four-year cycle. ThePapare also reports a proposed US$25 million allocation as part of a development plan.

ThePapare reports that FIFA President Gianni Infantino met Sports Minister Sunil Kumara Gamage and Football Federation of Sri Lanka President Jaswar Umar in Baku, Azerbaijan, to discuss the plan. Newsfirst and Newswire also report talks between Infantino and a delegation led by Gamage.

ThePapare says the proposed funding would support the national team, youth sides, the women’s team, coaches and referees. Daily Mirror reports that infrastructure, youth programmes and national-team improvement were priorities discussed. ThePapare adds that the meeting covered plans for a modern international-standard stadium and upgrades to essential sports facilities.

ThePapare reports that Gamage thanked FIFA for its backing of Sri Lankan national and youth teams, referred to progress over the previous two years, and restated the government’s commitment to working with FIFA and FFSL. It says the plan aims to make football Sri Lanka’s most popular sport within four years and to extend facilities across the country. ThePapare also reports that a nationwide infrastructure initiative is planned, including football grounds in each district.