France’s ambitious 2025–2028 futsal growth plan feels like a genuine turning point for the sport – and a blueprint that England should be paying close attention to.
The French Football Federation has set clear, measurable targets: doubling licensed futsal players to 100,000 by 2032, investing around €10 million per year by the end of the cycle, and ensuring every regional league has senior, U19 and women’s championships. With around 50,000 licensed players already, 50% of them under 18, and nearly 200,000 school participants, the foundations are strong – this plan is about turning potential into performance.
What stands out is the joined-up thinking. New national women’s and U19 leagues, a second national centre of excellence, structured school-to-club pathways through the “Futsal Aces” programme, and a big push on media and sponsorship all show a long-term commitment, not a short-term fix.
France is investing in structure, people and opportunity – and that’s exactly why they’re moving in the right direction. For England, the lesson is clear: growth doesn’t happen by accident. With proper funding, clear pathways and visible ambition, futsal can thrive here too.
