Several African nations, including the Ghana national football team, could lose part of their earnings from the 2026 FIFA World Cup after FIFA failed to secure a full tax exemption from the United States for all participating countries.

According to DW Africa, the issue means some national teams may have to pay taxes on portions of the prize money and income generated during the tournament when matches are played on American soil.

The 2026 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, will feature 48 teams for the first time.

However, unlike the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, where full tax exemptions were granted, the United States has not agreed to a complete tax waiver for the upcoming tournament.

The development could particularly affect African teams, such as Senegal and DR Congo, whose football associations may see a portion of their World Cup incomes reduced due to taxation.

Joachim Low reacts to Black Stars coaching job links

Some countries could benefit from existing tax agreements with the United States. For instance, Egypt, Morocco, and South Africa national football teams have tax treaties that may help reduce the financial impact.

Players will still be required to pay tax on earnings made in the United States, while additional taxes on coaches and support staff could further strain football associations that are already operating under tight budgets.



FKA/AE

Meanwhile, watch the latest edition of Sports Check with Sports Minister Kofi Adams below: