Mamelodi Sundowns have secured a massive financial boost after qualifying for the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, set to take place in the United States. The Brazilians will receive at least R170 million for their participation in the inaugural 32-team competition, a figure significantly revised from the initial projection of $50 million (over R900 million) per team.
Revised Prize Structure for the Club World Cup
FIFA has adjusted its financial distribution model, ensuring that Sundowns and other African representatives will receive a guaranteed $9.5 million (approximately R173 million) for making it to the tournament. This amount could increase significantly depending on their performance in the competition.
Each victory in the group stage will earn the club an additional R36 million, while a draw will bring in R18 million. If Sundowns progress beyond the group stage, they will collect a further R136 million, making the stakes even higher.
Mamelodi Sundowns’ Group and Tournament Format
Sundowns have been placed in Group F alongside Brazilian giants Fluminense, German heavyweights Borussia Dortmund, and South Korean champions Ulsan HD. To advance to the knockout rounds, they must finish in the top two of their group. The tournament, which mirrors the FIFA World Cup format, will commence on 14 June and conclude on 13 July.
Potential Earnings Breakdown
The potential earnings for teams in the tournament are structured as follows:
- Group Stage Victory: R36 million per win
- Group Stage Draw: R18 million per draw
- Round of 16 Qualification: R136 million
- Quarter-Final Qualification: R237 million
- Semi-Final Qualification: R380 million
- Finalist Prize Money: R607 million
- Tournament Winner: R1.28 billion
With the massive financial rewards on offer, clubs are expected to take the competition seriously. Sundowns, as one of four African representatives, will have a chance to boost their financial standing significantly depending on their performance.
Club World Cup’s Global Financial Distribution
FIFA’s revised structure ensures that the $1 billion prize pool is fairly distributed among participating clubs. African teams, along with those from Asia and North America, will each receive $9.55 million (R173 million) as a participation fee, while European clubs stand to earn between $12.8 million and $38.2 million based on sporting and commercial criteria.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino hailed the tournament’s financial model as the biggest prize money allocation in club football history. He also highlighted FIFA’s commitment to global football development, with an additional $250 million set aside for investment in club football worldwide.
Sundowns’ Opportunity to Make History
For Sundowns, this tournament presents not only a financial windfall but also an opportunity to showcase South African football on a global stage. With strong performances, they could secure even greater earnings and cement their status as one of Africa’s top football clubs.
Related article: 2025 FIFA Club World Cup: Sundowns Tricky Group and Must-Know Details
