Canada to take home over US$10M from FIFA for men’s World Cup performance
Global News
The 41st-ranked Canadians, who opened the tournament with a 1-0 loss to No. 2 Belgium, were eliminated from advancing to the knockout round after a 4-1 loss to Croatia in Sunday.
Canada will leave the World Cup with US$10.5 million from FIFA for its participation at the men’s soccer showcase.
The 41st-ranked Canadians, who opened the tournament with a 1-0 loss to No. 2 Belgium, were eliminated from advancing to the knockout round after a 4-1 loss to Croatia in Sunday. Canada will go home after facing No. 22 Morocco on Thursday to complete Group F play.
Total prize money at the 32-country tournament in Qatar is US$440 million with the teams failing to advance out of the group stage like Canada = those finishing 17th through 32nd _ each receiving US$9 million.
In addition, all 32 entrants were given US$1.5 million ahead of the tournament to cover preparation costs.
To put those winnings into context, Canada Soccer’s annual operating budget is C$30 million.
How much of the Canadian prize money goes to the players is part of the ongoing labour talks for a first collective bargaining agreement between the men’s players association and Canada Soccer. Both sides have said pay equity with the women’s team, which is negotiating a new deal itself, will be a cornerstone of the agreement.
Canada’s participation at the World Cup – its first trip the finals since 1986 = has already boosted the sport’s profile and likely sponsorships at home with millions of eyes on the Canadian men.
The eventual winner in Qatar will collect US$42 million in prize money with the runner-up earning US$30 million.
