FIFA is set to pay an unprecedented total of US$355 million [R6.1 billion] to clubs that released players for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
The figure represents a significant increase of nearly 70% from the amount paid out for the previous campaign. This substantial rise in compensation underscores FIFA’s recognition of the vital role clubs play in player development and the overall success of the world’s most prestigious football tournament.
Clubs play a vital role in the success of the World Cup by releasing their players to national teams. Through the FIFA Club Benefits Programme, FIFA financially rewards and acknowledges the important contribution of clubs in making the World Cup the world’s premier sporting event.
Following the World Cup Qatar 2022, a total of USD 209 million [R3.2 billion] was distributed among the clubs that released players, as well as those with which these players were registered during the two years leading up to the final stage of the tournament, including the qualification phase.
In total, 440 clubs from around the world received a share of this amount. Five clubs from Tunisia received USD 1,494,734 [R26 million].
Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates are among the South African teams that are set to benefit, as they had a significant number of players involved in the World Cup qualifiers for Bafana Bafana.
During the recently concluded September international break, Bafana Bafana maintained control of their group by beating Lesotho 3-0 and playing to a 1-1 draw against Nigeria. Both matches were held in Bloemfontein.
WHAT FIFA SAID ABOUT THE R6.1 BILLION SET ASIDE FOR CLUBS
In a statement, FIFA said: “For the first time, the programme will directly reward all clubs releasing players for the World Cup 2026 qualifiers. An unprecedented total of US$355 million has been set aside for the benefit of club football, an increase of nearly 70% compared to the previous edition.
“FIFA Club Benefits Programme is part of the renewed memorandum of understanding signed by FIFA and the European Club Association.
“More clubs than ever set to benefit from the World Cup as FIFA gear up to implement an enhanced edition of the FIFA Club Benefits Programme for the 2026 edition of its flagship men’s competition.
“As per the renewed memorandum of understanding signed by FIFA and the European Club Association in March 2023, clubs that release players for the World Cup 2026 will benefit from US$355 million overall.”
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