US World Cup host cities seek millions in unpaid FIFA funding: report
Summary
Several US cities that hosted the 2026 World Cup matches say FIFA promised them $1 million each to support soccer facilities and community projects, but they have not received the payments. These cities are now asking FIFA for updates, while FIFA and its president Gianni Infantino face growing criticism.Key Facts
- US cities that hosted World Cup games include Seattle, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Dallas, Kansas City, Atlanta, Philadelphia, Miami, Boston, and New York/New Jersey.
- These cities say FIFA promised $1 million in "legacy" funds to improve soccer infrastructure and social initiatives.
- The promise was made verbally by FIFA senior management but no public announcement was made.
- Cities requested the funds after FIFA announced payments for hosting the 2025 Club World Cup in the US.
- The 2026 World Cup was held across the US, Canada, and Mexico with 48 teams participating.
- FIFA’s revenues reportedly hit $15 billion for the 2023-26 cycle.
- FIFA president Gianni Infantino is facing criticism from European soccer organizations and internally over his leadership and proposals.
- The cities are currently awaiting updates from FIFA on when they will receive the funds.
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