FIFA opens two new children's football pitches in West Bank

The International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) has announced the opening of two new mini football pitches under the "FIFA Arena" program in the villages of Marah Rabah, south of Bethlehem, and Qusin, in the northern West Bank. The facilities are intended for use by children and the local community, aiming to provide safe and accessible spaces for playing football.

FIFA explained that the pitches were established in cooperation with the Palestinian Football Association and jointly funded by FIFA and the Swiss Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The initiative comes amid restrictions that disrupt daily life and limit children's access to schools and sports activities in the West Bank.

The official inauguration of the pitches is scheduled for September 25, when they will host the "Children's Cup: United for Peace" tournament, featuring 14 local Palestinian teams and up to 160 children. The tournament will include group stage matches, knockout rounds, and additional sports activities for children and members of the local communities.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino emphasized that the value of these facilities lies in their daily use, highlighting the importance of providing safe places for children to play football and meet friends amid the region's instability.

Initiative to boost community activities

This initiative is part of the "United for Peace" campaign and the "FIFA Arena" program, which aims to create safe and sustainable football spaces worldwide, as well as provide equipment to support the continuation of community sports activities.