FIFA launches new training programs for club executives and players starting November 2026

These 18-month initiatives aim to enhance leadership and management skills within the football industry, targeting club executives, and active and retired professional players and coaches. Participants will engage in online learning, optional in-person sessions, club visits, and behind-the-scenes experiences. Ornella Desirée Bellia, FIFA's Director of Professional Football Relations and Development, stated that the programs underscore FIFA's commitment to developing key personnel in the sport, providing opportunities for knowledge-sharing, practical learning, and global networking to professionalize and grow the game.

The FIFA Diploma in Club Management focuses on leadership, governance, finance, marketing, club operations, and sporting strategy for executives and former international players/coaches in managerial roles. The FIFA Players Executive Programme is designed for active and retired professional players and coaches transitioning into leadership positions, covering football management, well-being, financial planning, personal branding, and philanthropy. Gelson Fernandes, FIFA Deputy Chief Member Associations Officer, emphasized the importance of strong club leadership and the involvement of former players in football administration, highlighting their invaluable experience a