FIFA President Gianni Infantino declares his forthcoming visit to Pakistan.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has declared plans to visit Pakistan imminently to advance the promotion of football in the country.

During an interview in Davos, Infantino stated that he had assured Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif of his imminent visit to Pakistan.

Infantino commended the recent advancements in the Pakistan Football Federation, highlighting the appointment of a new president who is performing admirably.

He characterized Pakistan as a nation with significant potential in football and articulated his aspiration for Pakistan to become one of Asia’s premier teams, noting that FIFA is diligently pursuing that objective.

The relationship between Pakistan and FIFA has been strengthened over time. Last month, FIFA designated Pakistani legislator Syeda Amina Batool to its Institutional Reforms Committee, signifying an increase in collaboration between the two entities.

In November 2025, FIFA Senior Vice President Sheikh Salman bin Ibrahim Al Khalifa visited Pakistan. Throughout his three-day visit, he conducted meetings with football officials and government leaders, concentrating on the advancement of football infrastructure in the nation.

Football has historically had popularity among Pakistani youngsters, with grassroots enthusiasm surging in recent years due to heightened participation in international competitions. Local tournaments, school-level competitions, and community clubs in large cities have augmented passion for the sport, while football remains overshadowed by cricket, Pakistan’s preeminent and economically prosperous sport.