Before Singapore ended their Asian Cup Group C qualifiers against Bangladesh before 30,000-odd fans, Football Association of Singapore President Forrest Li’s firm Sea Limited (NYSE: SE), a global technology company announced plans to donate S$50 million to support the long-term development of football in Singapore.
A statement added that the amount includes S$10 million already donated to the at the start of 2026 and the remaining S$40 million will be progressively disbursed by Sea to support meaningful initiatives that can broaden participation, strengthen development pathways, and contribute to the growth of a more vibrant football ecosystem in Singapore.
No details were provided as to how this $40 million would be used, and if it also included the money the company would need to spend on Lion City Sailors, of which Li is the head honcho.
“We believe football can play a powerful role in bringing communities together, building character, and opening up opportunities for young people,” said Forrest Li, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Sea.
“Football has a unique ability to forge connections and inspire pride and joy through a shared sense of purpose.
“With Sea’s S$50 million donation, we hope to support the long-term development of football in Singapore and give back to the community that has played such an important role in Sea’s journey.”
The company provided a few proof points in their statement illustrating how the firm has been support local football since 2016, which included the sponsorship of the Young Lions through Garena, the taking over of Home United Football Club in 2020 and the continued investment into the club to turn it into a powerhouse.
“Sea intends to work closely with the government and the wider footballing community to deploy this funding effectively,” said the statement without further details.
“Sea firmly believes in the power of football to meaningfully engage communities; bringing together people of all ages and backgrounds as we unite behind a shared passion,” the statement added.
Apart from diving into the details about how the $40 million will be deployed, questions would also need to be asked about why the FAS would need to then raise funds from the public given its financial state with the injection of funds, coupled with the funding provided through Sport Singapore.
Fans at the National Stadium on 31 March were provided clappers which had a QR code seeking donations.
A fan who sent TMSGOAL the image found on the clapper wondered, “why are they seeking donations from the man in the street when they are getting so much money compared to other sports associations?”
Singapore beat Bangladesh 1-0 to top the group and to finish the Asian Cup qualifiers unbeaten.
MAIN IMAGE: FAS