Here’s the latest update from the 2026 FIFA World Cup as of 2026-07-08 02:58:00.
The U.S. men’s national soccer team earned $16 million in prize money from FIFA after reaching the round of 16 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where they faced Belgium and were defeated 4-1.
This prize money will be shared equally among the 26 players on the men’s roster and the 26 women who will represent the U.S. in the 2027 Women’s World Cup, provided they qualify.
Equal Split Under Collective Bargaining
Both men’s and women’s players equally share the World Cup prize money as per the collective bargaining agreements ratified by U.S. Soccer in 2022. This came after a lengthy struggle by the women’s national team for equal pay, which included public advocacy and legal actions over nearly six years.
According to the agreements, U.S. Soccer retains 20% of the prize money, while 80% is divided between the men’s and women’s players making their respective World Cup rosters. This results in a payout of $6.4 million per team, translating to approximately $246,153.85 per player.
Future Implications and Requirements
The same financial distribution model will be applied to the 2027 Women’s World Cup prize money, contingent upon the U.S. women’s team qualifying. They must secure their spot by defeating El Salvador in a crucial Concacaf quarterfinal on November 27.
Should the women qualify, their per-player payout could see a slight increase. U.S. Soccer is required to distribute prize money within 31 days of receiving it from FIFA. However, due to the uncertainty surrounding the women’s qualification, the $6.4 million designated for them will be placed in an interest-bearing account.
Interest accrued on this fund will also be shared equally between both teams’ players. U.S. Soccer will likewise ensure that all World Cup earnings are paid within the stipulated timeframe.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has expressed intentions to equalize prize money for men’s and women’s tournaments by 2027, marking a significant shift in the landscape of international football.
FAQs
How is the World Cup prize money split between U.S. players?
The $16 million prize will be split evenly between the men’s and women’s teams, contingent on the women qualifying for the 2027 World Cup.
What needs to happen for the U.S. women’s team to receive their share?
The U.S. women must qualify for the 2027 World Cup by defeating El Salvador in their upcoming match on November 27.
Key Facts
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- Source: www.espn.com – SOCCER
- Published: 2026-07-08 02:58:00
Stay updated on the FIFA World Cup 2026 right here as the tournament continues.
Tags: #U.S #men #women #equal #split #16M #World #Cup #prize
Tags: #U.S #men #women #equal #split #16M #World #Cup #prize
