FIFA President Gianni Infantino visits Bhutan as FIFA commits USD 25 million to the Bhutan Football Federation
19 October 2026
FIFA President Gianni Infantino began a two-day visit to Bhutan on 19 October and met King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay.
Over the next four years the Bhutan Football Federation (BFF) is to receive USD 25 million from FIFA, mainly for infrastructure, youth football and the women's game.
Infantino toured the Changlimithang Football Stadium and the BFF headquarters, known as the "Home of Happiness".
He also met Prince Jigyel Ugyen Wangchuck, President of the Bhutan Olympic Committee, and BFF President Dasho Ugen Tsechup.
FIFA Forward funds have already paid for the BFF headquarters, a training centre, artificial pitches, floodlights and the National Women's League.
FIFA Arena mini-pitches have opened at two schools, the first steps towards BFF President Ugen Tsechup's goal of 100 such facilities nationwide.
Bhutan's under-15 boys are preparing for the first FIFA U-15 World Cup & Festival in Azerbaijan, where they play in Group Q.
In plain words
FIFA Fédération Internationale de Football Association — World football's governing body, headquartered in Zurich; its President is Gianni Infantino.
BFF Bhutan Football Federation — Governs football in Bhutan; President Dasho Ugen Tsechup.
FIFA Forward FIFA's development funding programme — Funds infrastructure and competitions in member associations; paid for the BFF's headquarters and training centre.