Kazakhstan has become one of the first countries to join FIFA’s global Arena project aimed at developing youth football. Under the program, 100 mini-football pitches will be built at schools across the country.
According to the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, the first fields will be completed this year in Khrontau and Kokshetau, with the entire program expected to be finalized by 2027.
“Each field will meet FIFA’s standard parameters — measuring 20×40 meters, featuring new-generation non-infill artificial turf, built-in goals, perimeter panels, and safety nets. The modular design allows installation in existing schoolyards and sports areas. The project primarily targets small towns and rural schools, and is fully funded by FIFA,” the ministry explained.
Football remains the most popular sport in Kazakhstan, with more than 1.1 million people regularly participating. Nationwide, there are 280 football stadiums, over 7,000 school-based pitches, and more than 400 sports and fitness centers.
In recent years, with support from FIFA and UEFA, Kazakhstan has developed a modern national training base in Talgar, built the House of Football and an indoor arena in Astana, and opened the BIYK private training facility in Shymkent and a full-size indoor arena in Kostanay for FC Tobol.
