FIFA President Gianni Infantino congratulated the Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) for its remarkable growth over the past year during a video address to the OFC Congress. He celebrated the region’s development and record number of national teams qualifying for FIFA international tournaments.
“I speak to you with great pride. Pride in what you have achieved. Pride in how far Oceania has come,” said Infantino. “Football in Oceania is thriving, and the opportunities before you are greater than ever.”
Infantino praised OFC President and FIFA Vice President Lambert Maltock for leading the region through a year of historic milestones. Among these were Fiji’s qualification for the FIFA U-17 World Cup™, Samoa’s qualification for the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup™, New Zealand’s qualification for FIFA World Cup 26™, and New Caledonia’s spot in the FIFA World Cup 26™ Play-off Tournament.
OFC Professional League Set for 2026
A major highlight of the Congress was the upcoming launch of the OFC Professional League in 2026 — the region’s first-ever professional football league. OFC President Lambert Maltock emphasized how this league will reshape football in the Pacific.
“Our focus on launching the OFC Professional League in 2026 has brought our region closer to a future where our clubs, players, and people can aspire to the highest standards,” said Maltock. “Step by step, we are building a league that will transform Oceania football.”
Grassroots Growth and Women’s Football Development
Maltock also highlighted OFC’s dedication to grassroots programs, engaging over 70,000 young players with a focus on inclusion and gender equality. Women’s football has seen rapid growth, with participation in New Zealand rising by 27%. New leadership and coaching pathways for women are opening up unprecedented opportunities.
Digital Engagement Reaches New Heights
OFC’s digital platforms have also seen strong growth. The number of followers increased by 19% from 239,947 in 2023 to 286,456 in 2024. Interactions rose by 21% to 2.68 million. Livestreaming views more than doubled, jumping from 1.09 million in 2023 to 2.28 million in 2024 — an 81% increase.
Global Support and Governance Improvements
CONMEBOL President Alejandro Domínguez attended the Congress, reaffirming South America’s support for Oceania’s development. He praised the OFC Professional League as a significant step forward for both current and future players.
Additionally, the Congress approved amendments to OFC Statutes to support the league’s creation, ensuring better governance and operational efficiency. Nine new members were also appointed to OFC’s judicial bodies and standing committees, aligning their terms with those elected in 2024.
These actions underline OFC’s strong commitment to good governance and transparent decision-making.
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