São Paulo Gears Up Football Initiatives Ahead of 2026 FIFA World Cup
São Paulo advances football through social projects, youth championships, and infrastructure investments ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
- • 22 football social projects active under Paulista Law of Incentive to Sport.
- • Escola de Goleiro Camisa 1 has trained professional goalkeepers like Léo Aragão and Daniel Fuzato.
- • José Astolphi State Football Championship featured 872 athletes in 2025 across five categories.
- • Over 100 leisure arenas opened since 2023 with investment above R$ 100 million.
Key details
As the 2026 FIFA World Cup draws near, taking place for the first time across the United States, Mexico, and Canada, the São Paulo State Sports Secretariat (Sesp) is intensifying efforts to boost football development locally. This includes a range of social projects, youth competitions, talent development programs, and significant infrastructure investments.
Currently, 22 football-related social projects are active under the Paulista Law of Incentive to Sport, engaging the community and nurturing young talents. A notable initiative is the Escola de Goleiro Camisa 1 in Americana, which has successfully trained professional goalkeepers such as Léo Aragão and Daniel Fuzato. Additionally, the Sports Talent Program supports 14 active football athletes, including players with disabilities, showcasing São Paulo’s commitment to inclusivity and broad talent development.
The José Astolphi State Football Championship remains the only competition exclusively dedicated to football in São Paulo. In 2025, it featured five categories and brought together 872 athletes across four municipalities. Other events, like the Open Games of the Interior and Regional Games, also incorporate football and futsal, fostering widespread participation across the state.
Infrastructure enhancements complement these programs. Since January 2023, more than 100 leisure arenas have been opened, including soccer fields and 3x3 basketball courts, with total investments exceeding R$ 100 million. These investments aim to improve access to sports facilities and invigorate local communities.
The Secretary of Sports, Colonel Helena Reis, emphasized football’s huge appeal, stating that the Secretariat will maintain its efforts to promote the sport extensively in the lead-up to the World Cup. Furthermore, the Secretary of Sports recently released the official calendar and regulations for upcoming football and futsal competitions, with the Ginásio Azulão designated as the venue for futsal matches, ensuring well-organized events in the near future.
In summary, São Paulo’s comprehensive strategy to advance football through social projects, youth championships, talent support, and infrastructure development reflects both the state’s passion for the sport and its preparation for the global spotlight in 2026.
This article was synthesized and translated from native language sources to provide English-speaking readers with local perspectives.
