FIFA

Crowded 
        Stadium with a Soccer Field and Players on the Field

What is FIFA?

FIFA, which stands for the Fédération Internationale de Football Association, is the global governing body for the sport of soccer. Founded in 1904 and headquartered in Zurich, Switzerland, FIFA oversees the rules of the game, organizes major international competitions, and works to promote soccer’s growth and development worldwide. The organization includes over 200 member associations, making it one of the largest and most influential sports organizations in the world. FIFA is responsible for setting standards for fair play, refereeing, and player conduct to ensure the game is played consistently across all nations.

Beyond organizing competitions, FIFA’s most famous event is the FIFA World Cup, which unites teams and fans from around the globe every four years. In addition to the men’s and women’s World Cups, FIFA also manages youth, futsal, and beach soccer tournaments. The organization works to support soccer development through funding, education, and infrastructure projects, especially in developing countries. Although FIFA has faced criticism and controversy over governance issues, it continues to play a central role in shaping the sport’s future and maintaining its position as the world’s most popular and unifying game.