Nigeria and the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) will miss out on the largest prize fund in FIFA World Cup history after the Super Eagles failed to qualify for the 2026 tournament.
FIFA has confirmed a total prize pot of $655m (£520m), equivalent to about ₦990bn, for the first expanded 48-team men’s World Cup, set to be hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Nigeria were among the favourites to reach the tournament but finished second in their qualification group behind South Africa. They progressed to the African playoffs, where only one of four teams could secure a place at the finals.
The Super Eagles defeated Gabon in the semi-finals before losing to DR Congo on penalties in the playoff final, confirming Nigeria’s absence from a second successive World Cup following their failure to qualify for Qatar 2022.
Under FIFA’s prize structure, each participating nation will receive $1.5m in preparation funding and a guaranteed $9m for reaching the group stage. The eventual champions will earn $50m, with payments increasing progressively based on finishing position.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino. Photo Credit: Getty Images
Nigeria’s elimination means the NFF will miss out on a minimum guaranteed payment of $10.5m, with players also losing out on potential earnings through the federation’s prize-sharing arrangements.
FIFA approved the prize fund at a council meeting in Doha on Wednesday, confirming a 50% increase from the 2022 World Cup prize pool.
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However, a slim possibility of qualification remains. The NFF has submitted a petition to FIFA challenging DR Congo’s eligibility, alleging the use of players who may not meet nationality requirements.
Photo Credit: Imago
The case centres on defender Aaron Wan-Bissaka, who previously represented England before switching allegiance to DR Congo. Although FIFA approved the change, Nigeria argue that DR Congo’s domestic laws do not permit dual citizenship, raising questions over his eligibility.
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The case is complicated further by the involvement of other nations, including Cameroon, and FIFA has yet to issue a ruling. A decision is expected before the intercontinental playoffs scheduled for March.
