Work begins on Pakistan’s first FIFA Arena Pitch in Lahore

The Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) has announced the start of construction on the country’s first FIFA Arena pitch at a government school in Lahore’s Sabzazar area. The initiative marks a major step in grassroots football development, with the FIFA Arena concept focusing on high-quality mini pitches to make football more accessible in schools and communities. Two such pitches have already arrived in Pakistan, with Lahore hosting the first installation. PFF President Mohsen Gilani said the project reflects a commitment to expanding opportunities for young players across the country. He added that a second pitch will soon be developed in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, with more planned nationwide. "Football must be accessible to every child and as the custodian of football in Pakistan, it is my commitment to every Pakistani child that we'll provide them with the opportunity to play," said President Gilani. "This pitch in Lahore is the first of many. Work on the second will commence soon in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and more pitches are on their way to Pakistan." The project follows support from the Asian Football Confederation and FIFA, alongside cooperation from the Pakistani government, which has facilitated the use of public school spaces. So far, 11 FIFA Arena pitches have been approved for Pakistan, while the PFF has requested 15 more as part of its broader plan to expand football infrastructure across the country.