FIFA Steps Up: Women’s World Cup Teams to Get Equal Prep Funds as Men

FIFA has made a significant announcement: the 2027 Women’s World Cup teams in Brazil will receive the same preparation funds as those competing in the 2026 Men's World Cup. The financial boost is substantial, with the preparation money for each of the 32 teams more than doubling to a whopping $2.5 million (£1.86 million). To put it into perspective, the total preparation funds for the upcoming tournament will skyrocket from $31 million to $80 million. In a move aimed at ensuring equality, FIFA has committed to providing each player with business class or chartered flights and individual hotel rooms, eliminating the need for sharing. This change is likely to be a relief for many, considering the controversies surrounding accommodations in past tournaments. A recent survey by the players’ union Fifpro revealed that only 80% of players were able to fly business class for their return flights after the 2023 Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand, with 94% enjoying business class on their outbound journeys. While the total prize fund for the 2027 tournament is still under wraps, FIFA has already named the United States as the host for the inaugural Women’s Club World Cup set for January 2028. Reports indicate that cities like Los Angeles and San Diego are likely candidates to host this exciting event. The Women’s Club World Cup will feature 19 teams, and seven have already qualified, including top clubs like Arsenal, Barcelona, and Gotham FC. The competition will see representation from various regions, including six European teams and clubs from AFC, CAF, Concacaf, and Conmebol, along with one team from Oceania. Sarai Bareman, FIFA’s chief women’s football officer, expressed the organization’s enthusiasm, stating, "The United States stood out as the ideal host due to its proven ability to stage major FIFA events, its passionate interest in women's football, and its top-notch sporting facilities." She added, "With the vibrant women’s football scene in the U.S., our goal is to set a high standard for global women’s club football and establish a benchmark for the future."