FIFA Announces Significant Prize Money Increase for Women’s World Cup
Commitment to Direct Prize Money towards Players Signals Progress in Gender Equity
In a groundbreaking move, FIFA President Gianni Infantino declared during the FIFA Congress in March that a portion of the prize money for the upcoming Women’s World Cup would be directed towards the players. This unprecedented decision marks a significant step forward for the tournament, set to commence on July 20 in Australia and New Zealand.
As part of the revamped approach, member associations participating in the Women’s World Cup will also receive augmented funding based on their performance. The victorious team will take home an impressive $4.29 million, while all participating delegations will earn $1.56 million for competing in the group stage.
However, it is important to note that the current performance-based prize funds still fall considerably short of the amounts offered at the men’s tournament last year, which boasted a total prize fund of $440 million.
To ensure the funds benefit the sport at various levels, FIFA has emphasized that national federations should reinvest the retained amount in their footballing activities. These activities include enhancing coaching staff, supporting grassroots projects, strengthening youth national teams, and developing women’s football capacity-building programs.
The Federation of International Football Players (FIFPRO) praised the announcement, recognizing it as the outcome of dedicated collective action by 150 national team players worldwide. FIFPRO also commended the constructive negotiations that took place between the players and FIFA in recent months.
“This significant decision reflects not only the tremendous efforts made by players worldwide but also signifies a meaningful step towards achieving greater gender equity in our sport, particularly at its highest levels,” stated the global soccer players union in a released statement.
With FIFA’s commitment to directing prize money towards the players and its expectation of reinvestment in footballing activities, the Women’s World Cup takes a significant stride forward in promoting gender equality and strengthening women’s football globally. Watch livescore of your favorite team here at 12BET.
