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2026 World Cup: US host cities demand millions in unpaid FIFA funds

From Le Figaro · () French

Translated from French, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources Context piece
  • US cities hosting the 2026 World Cup are demanding $1 million each from FIFA, which was verbally promised for community projects.
  • FIFA has not publicly commented on the promised funds, which were intended for mini-pitches and social initiatives.
  • Host cities incurred significant costs for the tournament, including infrastructure and security, while FIFA anticipates record profits.

US cities that hosted the 2026 World Cup are seeking $1 million each from FIFA, a sum that was verbally pledged but has not been paid. The Athletic reports that eleven cities are demanding this "legacy contribution," intended for building mini-pitches and supporting social projects.

FIFA has remained silent on the matter, despite the cities reminding the organization of the substantial investments they made. These included providing special access for FIFA VIPs, covering costs for "clean stadiums," and removing non-FIFA branding. Host cities also bore the majority of expenses for transportation, safety, and security, extending to FIFA Fan Fests and airport operations.

The cities had also taken charge of the majority of costs related to transport, safety and security, including at the FIFA Fan Fest sites, airports and even vehicles used during the competition.

— The AthleticReporting on the financial burdens placed on host cities.

This situation arises as FIFA is projected to achieve record profits from the 2026 World Cup. The organization's revenue for the 2023-2026 cycle is estimated to exceed $15 billion, with The Guardian reporting that the US World Cup alone could generate $4 billion more than initially forecast. City representatives have expressed confusion over FIFA's non-payment, especially given the organization's financial success.

The organization has recorded revenues exceeding $15 billion for the 2023-2026 cycle.

— The AthleticHighlighting FIFA's projected financial gains from the World Cup.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Le Figaro in French. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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