Post by : Badri Ariffin

FIFA, the governing body of football, has revealed a 15% hike in prize money for the 48 teams participating in upcoming international tournaments across the U.S., Mexico, and Canada.

Under this new funding model, preparation funds for each national squad will rise from $1.5 million to $2.5 million. Moreover, qualification financial aid has been boosted from $9 million to $10 million. Additional resources for team delegation expenses and increased ticket allocations will see a surge of over $16 million.

FIFA has also pledged to distribute any surplus revenue to its 211 member associations.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino emphasized that the organization is in an unparalleled financial state, with these funds earmarked to further football development globally.

Important Governance and Competition Changes

FIFA has sanctioned several key amendments and stipulations:

• The Afghan Women’s Refugee Team will gain eligibility to compete in official FIFA events, reflecting a governance adjustment.

• In the FIFA World Cup 2026, yellow cards will be reset after the group stage and again post-quarter-finals.

• Armenia and Georgia have been designated as hosts for the 2029 FIFA U-20 World Cup.

• Miami, USA, will be the venue for the final phase of the 2027 FIFA Women’s Champions Cup from January 27 to 31.

• The FIFA U-17 World Cup 2026 is set to take place in Qatar from November 19 to December 13.

International Calendar Announcements

Additionally, FIFA has set dates for significant upcoming tournaments:

• AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027: January 7 – February 5, 2027

• Concacaf Gold Cup 2027: June 19 – July 11, 2027

• CAF Africa Cup of Nations 2027: June 19 – July 17, 2027

FIFA Presidential Election Timeline

According to FIFA statutes, the presidential election for the 2027–2031 term will occur at the 77th FIFA Congress in 2027, with the electoral process commencing on April 30, 2026.

These transformations are aimed at reinforcing global football advancement, enhancing fairness, and widening prospects for all member nations.

#world news #Global News #Sports News #Sports