FIFA Foundation USA Launches in Miami with Transformative Soccer Field Project Ahead of World Cup 2026

Photo Credit: Sebastian Bednarski

Miami continues to strengthen its position as one of the most influential soccer destinations in the United States with the official launch of FIFA Foundation USA, a milestone initiative announced by FIFA President Gianni Infantino during a special community event at KIPP Miami Public Schools. The launch marks an important step in FIFA’s long-term commitment to creating meaningful social impact through soccer ahead of the highly anticipated FIFA World Cup 26™, while also reinforcing South Florida’s growing role in the global football landscape.

Photo Credit: Eva Marie Uzcategui – FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images

The inaugural project under FIFA Foundation USA centered on the refurbishment of a community soccer field at KIPP Miami’s North Campus in Miami-Dade County. Developed through a partnership involving FIFA Foundation USA, KIPP Miami Public Schools, the Gumball 3000 Foundation, and the FIFA World Cup 26 Miami Host Committee, the upgraded facility is designed to provide local students and families with enhanced opportunities for sport, education, and community engagement.

Photo Credit: Eva Marie Uzcategui – FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images

Photo Credit: Eva Marie Uzcategui – FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images

Located in one of South Florida’s most dynamic educational communities, KIPP Miami serves more than 1,200 students across its campuses. The refurbished field will feature upgraded seating, a modern scoreboard, and additional improvements intended to create a safe, accessible, and welcoming environment for year-round use. Beyond physical education classes, the facility will support after-school activities, football training programs, mentorship opportunities, and a variety of community-centered initiatives designed to encourage healthy lifestyles and personal development among young people.

Photo Credit: Sebastian Bednarski

Speaking during the ribbon-cutting ceremony, FIFA President Gianni Infantino highlighted the significance of the project and the broader vision behind FIFA Foundation USA. He emphasized that children represent the future of the game and that access to quality sporting facilities can play a transformative role in helping young people learn important life skills, build confidence, and pursue their dreams through soccer. The launch event represented not only the debut of FIFA Foundation USA but also the beginning of a broader mission to use the sport’s global reach to create positive change in communities across the country.

KIPP Miami leadership welcomed the investment, noting that the renovated facility will provide students with a safe and inspiring environment where they can develop teamwork, leadership, and resilience both on and off the field. School officials described the project as a powerful example of what can be achieved when educational institutions, nonprofit organizations, and global sports leaders unite around a shared commitment to youth development and community empowerment.

Photo Credit: Eva Marie Uzcategui – FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images

The project was made possible through funding from the Gumball 3000 Foundation, an organization dedicated to supporting youth-focused initiatives around the world. Founder Maximillion Cooper emphasized the role sports can play in fostering ambition, connection, and self-confidence among young people. Through partnerships such as this, the foundation continues to invest in projects that generate long-term social benefits while creating opportunities for future generations to thrive.

Photo Credit: Sebastian Bednarski Photo Credit: Sebastian Bednarski

As preparations continue for FIFA World Cup 26™, Miami remains at the center of global attention. The city is expected to welcome thousands of international visitors, athletes, media representatives, and fans during the tournament, making legacy initiatives like the KIPP Miami field refurbishment particularly meaningful. According to FIFA World Cup 26 Miami Host Committee President and CEO Alina Hudak, investments in community infrastructure ensure that the benefits of hosting one of the world’s largest sporting events extend far beyond the final whistle. The newly renovated field serves as a tangible example of how major sporting events can leave a lasting positive impact on local communities.

Photo Credit: Sebastian Bednarski

Photo Credit: Sebastian Bednarski

The celebration attracted students, educators, community leaders, and notable figures from the global soccer community. Among those in attendance were supermodel and FIFA Global Fan Ambassador Adriana Lima, along with FIFA Legends Patrice Evra and Maxi Rodríguez, who joined local stakeholders in recognizing the importance of creating accessible sporting opportunities for young people. Their presence underscored the international significance of the initiative and highlighted soccer’s unique ability to unite people from different backgrounds around a common purpose.

Photo Credit: Sebastian Bednarski

The refurbished facility is expected to become a vibrant hub for recreation and athletic development throughout South Florida. By providing reliable, year-round access to quality sporting infrastructure, the project creates opportunities for students and residents alike to participate in soccer while building stronger community connections. Such investments are increasingly important as Miami continues to evolve into a premier destination for international sports, entertainment, and cultural events.

Photo Credit: Sebastian Bednarski

The launch of FIFA Foundation USA demonstrates how strategic partnerships between global organizations, educational institutions, nonprofit foundations, and local communities can generate meaningful and lasting results. As Miami prepares to welcome the world for FIFA World Cup 26™, initiatives like the KIPP Miami soccer field refurbishment showcase the enduring power of soccer to inspire leadership, promote healthy lifestyles, and create opportunities that extend well beyond the game itself. Through FIFA Foundation USA’s first impact project, a strong foundation has been established for future community investments that will continue shaping the next generation of players, leaders, and dreamers across the United States.