The construction of a new football technical center, fully funded by the FIFA Forward Fund, has begun in Côte d'Ivoire.
The objective of this new FIFA initiative is to strengthen the foundation of Ivorian football by providing practitioners and trainers with a modern and suitable facility for talent development and competition organization.
According to the President of the Ivorian Football Federation, Yacine Idriss Diallo, this project, which will cost nearly €3.96 million, is considered an essential tool for the development of elite youth football.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino, speaking via videoconference, expressed FIFA’s pride in supporting this project, stating that it "demonstrates the global football governing body's ongoing commitment to supporting the construction of modern infrastructure essential for professionalizing football and nurturing a new generation of talents."
"When the renovation is completed, it will not just be a football technical center but a true symbol of hope and opportunity, a springboard for young players, coaches, and enthusiasts who will proudly represent Côte d'Ivoire and all of Africa in international competitions," he added.
For his part, the Deputy Minister of Sports and Living Environment, Adjé Silas Metch, highlighted that this project, supported by global and continental football governing bodies, including FIFA and CAF, will provide a practical solution to the pressing issue of local football development.
The renovation work will include the rehabilitation and modernization of existing buildings, as well as the construction of six new facilities tailored to the current needs of high-level football. These will include an accommodation building, a training area, a medical center, and a gymnasium.
The inauguration of the center is scheduled for March 2026.