FIFA’s $1 billion prize pool for the expanded Club World Cup has been a hot topic, especially after figures estimating each team’s payout surfaced. The Athletic, using UEFA coefficient rankings and commercial factors disclosed by FIFA, broke down the distribution of funds among participating clubs. While FIFA didn’t release exact figures per club, the estimates paint a clear picture of the tournament’s financial scale and who benefited the most.
Which clubs earned the most from FIFA’s Club World Cup payout?
English giants Chelsea lead the way with an estimated $114.6 million, reflecting both their UEFA ranking and commercial appeal. Paris Saint-Germain followed closely with $106.9 million, while Spanish powerhouse Real Madrid secured $82.5 million. Brazilian champions Fluminense weren’t far behind, pulling in $60.8 million.
Other top earners include:
- Bayern Munich: $58.2 million
- Borussia Dortmund: $52.3 million
- Manchester City: $51.7 million
- Palmeiras: $39.8 million
- Inter Milan: $36.8 million
- Al Hilal: $34.2 million
How did South American and African clubs fare?
While European clubs dominated the higher end of the payout scale, several South American sides also received substantial amounts. Flamengo ($27.7m), Botafogo ($26.7m), and River Plate ($18.2m) were among the continent’s top earners. Boca Juniors took home $17.2 million.
From Africa, South African club Mamelodi Sundowns received an estimated $12.6 million, followed by Al Ahly, Al Ain, and Esperance de Tunis, each earning $11.6 million.
What about clubs from the MLS, Asia, and Oceania?
MLS sides Inter Miami ($21.1m), LAFC ($10.6m), Seattle Sounders ($9.6m), and Pachuca ($9.6m) all earned solid payouts for their participation. Asian teams like Ulsan HD, Urawa Red Diamonds, and Wydad AC were also awarded around $9.6 million each.
At the bottom of the payout list was Auckland City from New Zealand, which earned $4.6 million, still a massive sum for a club of its size and region.
This breakdown highlights the enormous financial incentives behind FIFA’s new Club World Cup format and reflects the increasing commercial influence of global football.
By Yockshard Enyendi
