Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF) has been announced as an official sponsor of the 2026 World Cup in North America and Asia, marking a new step in tightening relations with international football as the country prepares to host the tournament in 2034.
The 2026 World Cup – the first to feature 48 teams – will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, running from June 11 to July 19.
According to statements from PIF and FIFA, the partnership includes support for global initiatives, ranging from community football programs, youth and women's football, education projects, to efforts to upgrade infrastructure and technical expertise. However, the parties did not disclose specific financial figures or detailed activities.
This agreement follows a previous partnership between PIF and FIFA for the 2025 Club World Cup and underscores the fund's deepening commercial relationship with world football ahead of Saudi Arabia hosting the 2034 World Cup. According to Mohamed AlSayyad, head of corporate brand at PIF, the fund continues to drive the growth of global football by expanding access to the game, creating benefits for players, fans, and the entire football ecosystem.
Notably, PIF has spent more than $5 billion on LIV Golf since the league launched in 2022. However, last month the fund announced it would cut funding after the 2026 season, forcing the breakaway golf league to seek new investors.
PIF, chaired by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, is also involved in various other sports sectors. In the announcement about cutting funding for LIV Golf, PIF affirmed it remains committed to deploying international capital according to its investment strategy, including current and future investments in various sports as a priority sector.
On the competitive side, the Saudi national team – which recently parted ways with head coach Herve Renard last month – will begin its 2026 World Cup campaign with a match against Uruguay on June 15. They will complete their Group H matches against Spain and debutants Cape Verde.
