FIFA President Gianni Infantino has praised Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for Pakistan’s transformative football development, describing the country’s progress as “absolutely incredible.” His remarks came during the ninth edition of the Future Investment Initiative in Riyadh, where global leaders gathered to discuss innovation and growth.
Infantino commended Pakistan’s growing investment in football, saying the sport plays a vital role in bringing joy and unity to communities. He emphasized that while infrastructure and technology are essential, nations must also invest in “emotions and happiness,” areas where football excels.
“What you are doing with your country is transformative. I can only take my hat off,” said Gianni Infantino, addressing Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. “Alongside your investments in technology, schools, and hospitals, we must also invest in happiness — and football is one of the best ways to bring people together.”
The FIFA President highlighted football’s global impact, noting its power to connect people across borders and cultures. He pointed to recent major tournaments as examples of this unity. The 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar brought together 3 million fans in stadiums and over 5 billion global viewers, while the 2023 Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand drew around 2 billion viewers. The next tournament, to be co-hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States, is expected to attract 6 billion viewers and 7 million spectators.
Infantino added that beyond economic development, people also need happiness and shared moments of celebration. “Football reminds us that we’re part of one world,” he said.
Pakistani officials welcomed the FIFA President’s remarks, calling them a strong endorsement of the country’s sports vision. The government aims to improve football infrastructure, increase youth participation, and use the sport as a tool for unity and national pride.
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