Super Falcons: FIFA to pay World Cup prize money directly to players

FIFA, the world football governing body, has declared that the prize money for the 2023 World Cup will be paid directly to the players without any interference from a third party. The decision comes as a direct response to the unpaid allowance issues faced by the Super Falcons of Nigeria.

Fatma Samoura, FIFA’s secretary-general, made the disclosure in a viral video, expressing her concern over the lingering unpaid per diem and bonuses owed to some Super Falcons players dating back two years. Samoura acknowledged the challenges faced by the Nigerian team and pledged to address the issue head-on.

In the video, Samoura empathized with the Super Falcons, acknowledging that “things have been tough” for the team. She further revealed that, in recognition of their plight, FIFA has taken a historic step to ensure that the prize money is ring-fenced and paid directly to the players. This move aims to guarantee that the funds reach the deserving athletes without any delay or diversion.

“I know that things have been tough. We have to face the realities of Nigeria. It pains me a lot. It is because of you [the Super Falcons] that, for the first time, the prize money has been ring-fenced in the history of FIFA to ensure that it goes to you,” said the FIFA secretary-general.

FIFA had previously announced that each player participating in the World Cup group stage would receive $30,000. As the competition progresses to the second round, the match bonuses will increase to $60,000, demonstrating FIFA’s commitment to fairly compensating the players for their dedication and performance on the field.

The Super Falcons have demonstrated their prowess in the group stage and have secured a place in the round of 16 after finishing second in group B. As a result, every team player will earn at least $60,000 for this remarkable feat.

The decision by FIFA to directly pay the prize money to the players brings renewed hope and relief to the Super Falcons, who have long advocated for fair treatment and timely compensation. With the assurance of their hard-earned rewards, the Nigerian team is now better poised to focus on their upcoming second-round contest against England on Monday.