FIFA announces direct payment of 2023 World Cup prize money amid Super Falcons allowance controversy

In a significant move aimed at addressing long-standing allowance issues, FIFA, the global governing body for football, has declared that the prize money for the 2023 World Cup will be paid directly to the players, bypassing any third-party intermediaries.

The announcement was made in a widely circulated video by FIFA Secretary-General Fatma Samoura.

Samoura cited the unresolved unpaid allowance concerns involving the Super Falcons of Nigeria as a key factor in this decision.

The team’s coach, Randy Waldrum, had revealed in the lead-up to the World Cup that some players were owed per diem and bonuses dating back to two years ago.

In the video, Samoura acknowledged the challenges faced by the Falcons and expressed her empathy for their situation. She announced that, in a historic step, FIFA has ring-fenced the prize money to ensure it reaches the players directly, acknowledging their dedication and contribution to the sport.

“I know that things have been tough. We have to face the realities of Nigeria. It pains me a lot. It is because of you [the Super Falcons] that, for the first time, the prize money has been ring-fenced in the history of FIFA to ensure that it goes to you,” stated Samoura.

FIFA had previously revealed that every player participating in the World Cup group stage would earn $30,000. Notably, the match bonuses will see an increase to $60,000 during the second round of the competition.

The Super Falcons, having secured their spot in the round of 16 by finishing second in group B, are now guaranteed a minimum earning of $60,000 per player for their remarkable achievement.

As they prepare for their upcoming second-round match against England, scheduled for Monday, the Nigerian team stands to benefit from FIFA’s proactive steps to ensure fair and direct compensation for their efforts.

The decision by FIFA reflects a commitment to addressing financial discrepancies and ensuring that players receive their rightful earnings. It marks a significant stride toward promoting transparency and accountability within the sport, as well as recognizing the invaluable contributions of athletes at the highest level of competition.