FIFA Club World Cup 2025 Offers Record Prize Money Amid Controversy

New York, USA — The FIFA Club World Cup in 2025 will feature unprecedented prize money, totaling $1 billion in payouts, according to FIFA President Gianni Infantino. This event, set to take place in the United States, promises each participating team significant financial rewards, alongside a $500 million participation fee.

Each victory in the group stage will earn a club $2 million, while a draw will net $1 million. Advancing to the Round of 16 is valued at approximately $7.5 million, the quarterfinal stage offers an additional $13.125 million, and reaching the semifinals will garner $21 million. A spot in the final brings $30 million, with the ultimate winner receiving an additional $40 million, totaling up to $125.8 million for the champion.

The distribution model shows clear variations, where European clubs can earn between $12.8 million and $38.2 million, while South American teams will receive $15.21 million. Clubs from other continents, such as Africa and Asia, will receive around $9.55 million, and Ocenian teams like Auckland City will receive only $3.58 million.

The FIFA President commented on the distribution model: “This represents the highest prize money for a football tournament featuring a group stage of seven matches and a knockout format.” Infantino emphasized that no revenue from the tournament would be retained by FIFA, stating all proceeds would benefit club football.

In Germany, top clubs Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund stand to gain significantly, with estimates suggesting they could earn as much as $115 million in combined prize money. This influx of money comes amid scrutiny over the funding stemming from Saudi Arabia, which has been linked to controversial human rights practices. Investigative reports allege that the Saudi Public Investment Fund invested $1 billion in DAZN for the broadcasting rights, creating a complex financial situation revolving around sportswashing issues.

Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International have condemned this partnership, with allegations that FIFA is ignoring serious human rights violations in Saudi Arabia for financial gain. Infantino’s ties to the Saudi leadership have raised concerns, prompting organizations like the European Leagues and FIFPRO to file complaints with the EU regarding these practices and their effects on player welfare.

Despite this outcry, Infantino maintains that the tournament will benefit global football, asserting that FIFA is committed to transparency and fairness in its financial practices.