The Club World Cup solidarity fund will see Europe's top-flight clubs share half of the $250m (£185m) pot from last year's tournament, ending a long-running dispute over the distribution of the money. FIFA and the European Football Clubs (EFC) are close to an agreement that will split the fund 50-50 between sides in Europe and the rest of the world.
What is the Club World Cup Solidarity Fund?
The solidarity fund was set aside to ensure the expanded Club World Cup contributes to the wider football ecosystem. The $250m pot will be distributed once the deal between FIFA and the EFC is ratified. The EFC had initially sought a share of just over 60%, but compromised after FIFA insisted on a more equal global distribution.
How Will the Money Be Distributed?
A portion of the $125m allocated to Europe will be given to all top-division European clubs that did not participate in the Club World Cup. The amount each club receives will vary based on the number of seasons they competed at that level between 2021 and 2024. Additionally, clubs with the best performance in UEFA club competitions during that period—provided they did not play in the 2025 tournament in the US—will receive a share.
Which Clubs Will Benefit?
Liverpool, the Champions League runners-up in 2022, are among those expected to benefit at the higher end of the scale. Other clubs with strong European performances in recent years could also receive significant payments, while those with fewer seasons in the top division will get less.
Comparison of Potential Payments
| Club | UEFA Performance (2021-2024) | Estimated Share |
|---|---|---|
| Liverpool | Champions League runners-up 2022 | High |
| Arsenal | Europa League semi-finalists 2021 | Medium-High |
| AC Milan | Serie A champions 2022 | Medium |
| Ajax | Eredivisie champions 2021, 2022 | Medium |
| Celtic | Scottish Premiership champions 2022, 2023 | Low-Medium |
Key Takeaways
- Europe's top-flight clubs will share 50% of the $250m Club World Cup solidarity fund.
- Payments will vary based on seasons in the top division and UEFA competition performance between 2021 and 2024.
- Clubs that participated in the 2025 Club World Cup are excluded from this distribution.
- The agreement is expected to be confirmed after the FIFA Council meeting on 15 October.
When Will the Deal Be Finalized?
The EFC will stage its general assembly in Copenhagen on Tuesday, where the agreement is likely to be confirmed. Final approval is expected from the FIFA Council, which is scheduled to meet in Zurich on 15 October. Once ratified, the funds will be distributed, bringing an end to a saga that had caused widespread frustration among clubs that did not participate in the tournament.
FAQ
What is the Club World Cup solidarity fund?
The solidarity fund is a $250m pot set aside by FIFA to ensure the Club World Cup benefits the wider football ecosystem. It will be distributed to clubs worldwide, with half going to European clubs.
How much will European clubs receive?
European clubs will share $125m (£92.5m). The exact amount per club depends on their top-division seasons and UEFA competition performance from 2021 to 2024.
When will the payments be made?
The agreement is expected to be ratified after the FIFA Council meeting on 15 October. Payments will follow once the deal is finalized.
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