FIFA's Grassroots Fests Are Bringing Tens of Thousands of Girls Into the Game This Year

While the men's World Cup dominated headlines this summer, FIFA has been running a quieter but equally important project: a global series of grassroots "Fests" specifically designed to introduce girls aged 6 to 16 to football. Running from March through October 2026, these community events are expected to reach more than 85,000 participants, with an emphasis on regions where access to organized football has historically been limited. The timing matters. Research into past major tournaments, from Euro 96 to the 2010 World Cup, shows that hosting a tournament alone does not automatically create more young players; the boost only sticks around when clubs, coaches and volunteers are ready to welcome newcomers. FIFA's Fest program is a direct attempt to convert World Cup excitement into structured opportunities before that window closes. For girls picking up a ball for the first time this year, a Fest can be the moment that turns curiosity into a lifelong passion. These low-pressure, festival-style sessions are designed to be fun first, with structured coaching layered in gradually, rather than pushing young players into competitive formats too early. Parents and coaches searching for a way to get a daughter, sister or student involved should look for these community Fest events locally. They are often free, welcoming to complete beginners, and exactly the kind of first step that has launched many current professional players' careers. Source: Inside FIFA (https://inside.fifa.com/womens-football/news/womens-football-development-activities-july-2026)