UEFA, CONCACAF sign landmark deal to develop football in the region
The Union of European Football (UEFA) and Confederation of North, Central America and Caribbean Association Football (CONCACAF) have signed a historic memorandum of understanding aimed at strengthening football development in the region.
The agreement, which runs until June 2031, was inked by UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin and CONCACAF president Victor Montagliani during the 76th FIFA Congress, and establishes a flexible framework for collaboration in key areas such as player development, coaching, refereeing, and administration.
As part of the partnership, UEFA will also invite boys’ and girls’ youth teams from CONCACAF member associations to participate in selected European youth tournaments, creating valuable international exposure and development opportunities.
“Europe and the CONCACAF region are home to some of the world’s most diverse football cultures, from deep-rooted traditions to fast-growing, innovative environments,” Ceferin said.
“By connecting these experiences, we can strengthen development pathways, raise standards and offer new opportunities throughout the game.”
The agreement also includes exchange programmes at major tournaments, collaboration on club licensing, and joint efforts in coach education, with possible mutual recognition of qualifications.
Referees and instructors will benefit from shared training opportunities and may officiate in each other’s competitions.
Supported by the UEFA Together programme, the partnership will focus on long-term development projects and regular strategic meetings.
CONCACAF president Victor Montagliani praised its potential to grow football in the region.
“Football is at its best when it brings people together, creates opportunity, and helps our global communities grow,” Montagliani said.
“CONCACAF has made tremendous progress over the the past decade, and partnerships like this help us continue raising standards while staying true to our responsibility to serve the game at every level,” Montagilani said.
