The UEFA Foundation for Children board of trustees has approved a new portfolio of 104 projects designed to promote the fundamental rights of vulnerable children across the globe. These initiatives were selected at its meeting, chaired by UEFA president  Aleksander Čeferin, on Monday 3 November, following the foundation’s annual call for projects, which invites organisations that share the foundation's values to propose practical measures to support children in need.

Marking its tenth anniversary, the UEFA Foundation for Children board also welcomes Luís Figo, Ivan Rakitić and Gabriella Csányi as its newest members, bringing fresh perspectives and renewed energy to its mission.

Several long-serving board members will continue their involvement with the foundation in new capacities. Clarence Seedorf will serve as advisor to the president for social affairs, while Andrea Radrizzani will take on the role of advisor to the foundation. Fiona May becomes a UEFA foundation ambassador, and Margarita Louis-Dreyfus will become a friend of the foundation.

Aleksander Čeferin, President of UEFA and Chair of the UEFA Foundation for Children, stated: “I am proud to welcome our new board members to the UEFA Foundation for Children. Their deep understanding of the game and their experience working with children will bring valuable perspective and passion to our mission.  I would also like to express my gratitude to long-standing members transitioning into new roles. Together, we will continue to harness the power of football to inspire hope, joy and opportunity where it’s needed most."

Luís Figo, UEFA Foundation for Children Board Member: “I’m looking forward to supporting and promoting all the foundation’s projects around the world. Every child is a champion, and I’m proud to be part of a team that believes in their potential.”

Ivan Rakitić, UEFA Foundation for Children Board Member: "It’s an honour to join the board after many fulfilling years as an ambassador. Children are at the heart of everything we do; they are our future, our inspiration. I’m committed to doing all I can to bring them joy, hope and opportunity through the power of football."

Gabriella Csányi, UEFA Foundation for Children Board Member: “It’s a great honour to join the UEFA Foundation for Children board. Having spent my career working with disadvantaged yet talented children, this feels like a meaningful recognition of that journey. I truly believe in equal opportunities, and when we empower children with the right resources, they can achieve anything.”

€6.8m allocated to 104 projects

The UEFA Foundation for Children works to uphold and advance the rights of vulnerable children worldwide, welcoming applications from organisations that align with its values of and propose impactful actions in the following areas: access to sport, personal development, disabled children, health, conflict victims, gender equality, environmental protection, employability, infrastructure and equipment and strengthening partnerships.

A budget of €6,855,000 was allocated to this year's call for projects, representing a €2m increase on 2024's figure.

The UEFA Foundation for Children administration examined and evaluated every project submitted, with final decisions made at this week's meeting in accordance with its statutes and ethical code.

Foundation board member Dominique Blanc, who participated in the selection process: “The projects selected represent a bold step forward in our strategic vision. Each initiative was chosen not only for its potential impact, but also for the strength of its partnerships and alignment with our core values. We are confident these efforts will deliver meaningful results on the ground.”

The board extends its appreciation to all partners and stakeholders who contributed to the development and proposal of these projects. The full list of 104 new projects across all continents is available here.

The next call for projects is scheduled for June/July 2026.