FIFA Series Launches with Global Friendly Matches to Elevate Lower-Ranked Teams

The inaugural FIFA Series, a set of international friendlies, aims to improve competitive play among nations less represented at the World Cup.

FIFA's new initiative, the FIFA Series, will kick off from March 18-26, featuring 20 teams across four host countries: Saudi Arabia, Algeria, Azerbaijan, and Sri Lanka.
Designed to aid teams that rarely face opponents from other confederations, the series offers a platform for lower-ranked nations to enhance their international experience.
Saudi Arabia, not participating, will host two of the four-team pools, continuing its collaboration with FIFA after the Club World Cup in December.
The series, revealed at the 2022 World Cup, is part of FIFA's effort to make future World Cups more competitive by raising the level of play outside Europe and South America.
No trophies or prize money will be awarded in the FIFA Series, focusing instead on providing competitive experience and covering travel costs for participating teams.