FIFA stands for the Fédération Internationale de Football Association. It is the global governing body for international football, and it organizes the FIFA World Cup.

What it does

  • Sets rules and standards for international football.
  • Organizes major tournaments, especially the World Cup.
  • Oversees international football through its member associations.

Why it matters now

Recent coverage has focused on FIFA because of a controversial World Cup disciplinary decision involving a U.S. player, which drew political and media attention.

In one line

If you saw “FIFA” in the news, it almost always means the organization behind world football and the World Cup.

If you want, I can also explain the difference between FIFA, UEFA, and national football federations.