Several European football federations fear they will lose money by participating in this summer's World Cup, with rising costs and unresolved tax exemptions among the issues urging Fifa to act. Despite record prize money of £539m approved in December, the increase may not prevent financial shortfalls that would normally fund local initiatives.
About ten associations have shared concerns, most recently at Uefa's annual congress in Brussels. Teams receive $9m (£6.7m) for qualifying and $1.5m in preparation costs, but the daily allowance has been cut from $850 to $600 per delegation member. One federation estimated it would receive about $500,000 less if its team remains for a month, and another expects a net loss if eliminated in the group stage or early knockout rounds.
Tax arrangements are a particular grievance. While Canada and Mexico have granted tax exemptions, the United States has not, leaving teams facing varying state taxes—13.3% in California and 10.75% in New Jersey—unless an agreement is reached. Associations must seek their own tax advice rather than receiving direct Fifa assistance.
Additional cost pressures include substantial travel demands, unfavourable exchange rates against the dollar, higher ticket prices, and the tournament's extended length. Unlike the four-week span in Qatar, the 2026 edition will only reach the quarter-finals at the 28-day mark. Some officials note the potential long-term benefit of exposure to the North American market as a mitigating factor.
