FIFA Foundation and World Amputee Football Federation Join Forces to Grow the Game

Full Story: FIFA

The growth of amputee soccer just took a major step forward on the world stage.

The FIFA Foundation and the World Amputee Football Federation (WAFF) have officially joined forces through a new cooperation agreement aimed at expanding opportunities for amputee athletes around the globe. This historic partnership is focused on fostering the development of amputee soccer and helping more people with limb differences access the beautiful game.

Signed during the recent WAFF Amputee Football World Cup in Istanbul, the agreement sets a clear path for greater investment in the sport’s infrastructure, coaching, and outreach initiatives. FIFA Foundation Executive Chairman, Mauricio Macri, and WAFF President, Richard Hofmann, both emphasized the shared mission: to empower individuals through soccer and break down barriers for adaptive athletes worldwide.

“This is a very important day for amputee football,” said Hofmann. “Working together with FIFA Foundation will give our players and programs new opportunities to thrive."

For organizations like the American Amputee Soccer Association (AASA), this global partnership is a powerful signal that adaptive soccer is gaining the recognition and support it deserves. With growing momentum internationally, AASA is excited about what this means for the future of the sport here in the United States — from strengthening our national programs to expanding regional and youth outreach.

The FIFA Foundation’s support promises to bring more visibility, resources, and legitimacy to amputee soccer, which will open doors for new athletes, sponsors, and fans. At AASA, we are proud to be part of this movement and will continue our mission to inspire, empower, and build community through the game.

The future of amputee soccer is bright — and we’re just getting started.