FIFA, or the Fédération Internationale de Football Association, is the global governing body for association football (soccer), as well as futsal and beach soccer. It was founded in 1904 in Paris to unify various national football associations and is now headquartered in Zurich, Switzerland. FIFA is best known for organizing the FIFA World Cup, which is held every four years and is one of the most widely watched sporting events in the world.

 

In addition to the World Cup, FIFA oversees several other international competitions, including the Women's World Cup, youth tournaments, and club competitions like the FIFA Club World Cup. The organization plays a major role in setting the rules of the game (in coordination with IFAB), promoting global football development, providing funding and support to member associations, and ensuring the integrity and fair conduct of the sport through regulations and disciplinary actions.