International Federation of Football Academies (IFAF)
Introduction
Sports academies represent the cornerstone of player development from childhood through the professional level. In this context, the International Federation of Football Academies (IFAF) was established as a global platform that unites official and private football academies under a single professional umbrella.
The Federation aims to bring together academies from around the world to provide the highest level of training programs and educational systems based on modern scientific methodologies to develop and refine young talent.
The International Federation of Football Academies (IFAF) is an international sports organization founded to serve as a central pillar in the advancement of football academies globally. It provides advanced training programs, strategic partnerships with global sports institutions, and works to build a new generation of players capable of competing at the highest levels.
Founder & Vision
Founder:
Saudi Captain Ishaq Siraj Shams Al-Din
The Federation was founded through the ambitious vision of Captain Ishaq Siraj Shams Al-Din, a former professional player for Al-Wehda Club in Saudi Arabia. Through his playing career, Ishaq recognized the importance of building strong infrastructures for sports academies.
The idea began in 2009 in Makkah Al-Mukarramah, and evolved into a global institution.
International Recognition
In a significant milestone that reflects its importance and credibility, the Federation was officially registered with the United Nations on 27 May 2016, and later obtained formal recognition from the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
These recognitions position IFAF as a globally acknowledged sports entity within the field of academy development.
Mission & Vision
Mission
The International Federation of Football Academies (IFAF) aims to provide broad support for sports academies worldwide by collaborating with governmental and private sports institutions.
The Federation works to enhance sports performance in academies, increase financial and developmental efficiency, and promote international sporting exchange at both local and global levels.
Vision
The Federation’s primary vision is to achieve global leadership in the field of sports academies.
It seeks to establish and develop highly professional academies dedicated to training young players aged 3 to 18, supported by a strong and modern sports infrastructure that prepares them for international competition.
Core Objectives of IFAF
1. Promoting Sports Awareness Among Youth
The Federation seeks to spread sports awareness among children and youth worldwide through specialized educational programs built on scientific and pedagogical principles.
Its goal is to build a strong foundation of future players capable of succeeding internationally.
Sub-Objectives:
Promote football training using scientific and educational methods.
Develop talents according to international standards for global competition.
2. Developing Sports Infrastructure for Academies
IFAF focuses on building strong sports infrastructure for academies across the globe while providing modern technologies and training techniques.
This ensures that academies deliver comprehensive programs that improve the physical and technical skills of talented players.
Sub-Objectives:
Scientifically identify talented players and refine their physical and technical skills.
Provide integrated training environments based on modern sports science.
3. Sustainable Development Through Sports
Sports are not merely entertainment—they serve as an effective tool for public health promotion and social peace.
IFAF places sustainable development at the core of its mission, with a strong emphasis on combating racism and discrimination.
Sub-Objectives:
Support programs that promote health and social stability.
Combat racism and discrimination in sports.
Organize activities and competitions that foster teamwork and fair play.
4. Global Expansion of Football Academies
The Federation aims to expand the presence of football academies worldwide.
By offering technical and administrative support, IFAF ensures the long-term success and sustainability of these academies.
Sub-Objectives:
Establish and develop academies in various countries.
Provide ongoing technical and administrative support.
Expand academy networks through strategic partnerships with international sports organizations.
Laws & Regulations Governing IFAF
Article 1: Nature of the Federation
The International Federation of Football Academies is an independent international sports body that operates in accordance with the principles of the United Nations Charter and local laws in each member country.
Article 2: Objectives
The Federation aims to:
Promote teamwork and fair competition among players and academies.
Improve public health by encouraging sports participation.
Combat racism and discrimination in sporting environments.
Article 3: Structure
The Federation consists of officially accredited academies from around the world that adhere to its statutes and regulations.
Article 4: Membership Applications
Academies wishing to join must submit a formal application along with their internal statutes and details regarding facilities and training infrastructure.
Article 5: Suspension of Membership
IFAF reserves the right to suspend the membership of any academy violating regulations or involved in legal or ethical misconduct.
Article 6: General Assembly
The General Assembly is the highest authority within the Federation and is composed of:
Voting Members: Accredited official academies
Honorary Members: Executive committee members and honorary figures
Intellectual Property Rights of IFAF
Article 7: Intellectual Property
IFAF is the sole owner of all intellectual property rights related to football academies under its umbrella.
Broadcasting & Production Rights: The Federation has exclusive rights to broadcast matches and sports events.
Commercial Rights: Includes marketing of sportswear, equipment, and commercial sponsorships.
Reproduction & Distribution Rights: IFAF owns all rights to reproduce and distribute registered matches, media content, and advertising materials.
Article 8: Restrictions & Licensing
No entity may organize tournaments or multi-nation events under the name of academies or academy investment without explicit permission from IFAF.
Marketing & Sponsorship
Article 9: Brand Marketing
The Federation markets its brand through partnerships with international sports institutions.
It oversees the branding of academy apparel and equipment, strengthening its global identity through media exposure.
Article 10: Sponsorship & Advertising
IFAF has the authority to sign sponsorship agreements with commercial partners and sponsors.
It also manages all advertising and sponsorship rights related to academies and tournaments under its supervision.
Competitions & Championships
Article 11: Major Competitions
IFAF organizes championships across various regions, including:
Gulf regional tournaments
Arab regional tournaments
Continental and international competitions such as the Academies World Cup and the Global Champions League
Academy & Player Management
Article 13: Player Registration
Academies are required to submit player lists annually for official registration, ensuring their rights and compliance with IFAF standards.
Article 14: Player Marketing
The Federation is the sole authority responsible for registering and marketing players to official clubs.
Agents receive a percentage of player contracts, and the Federation retains its own share to protect its rights.
Scholarships & Sports Camps
Article 18: General Conditions
All training camps or international sports scholarships must be coordinated with the Federation and relevant sports authorities in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Conclusion
The International Federation of Football Academies (IFAF) was established to serve as a global platform uniting both official and private sports academies under one professional framework.
The Federation is dedicated to providing full developmental support to academies worldwide through comprehensive programs and strategic partnerships.
Its central mission is to build a sustainable, professional sports environment that elevates talent development across the globe.
Written by: Captain Ishaq Bin Siraj
