Prize Money: Why we’re paying Super Falcons directly, not Nigeria- FIFA
The Secretary-General of the Federation Internationale de Football Association (FIFA), Ms Fatma Samoura, has told Super Falcons of Nigeria that it is because of players like them that FIFA decided to pay prize money directly to players.
Samoura who addressed the Super Falcons in their dressing room, after their goalless draw with the Republic of Ireland said the “reality of Nigeria” had inspired the decision by FIFA for the first time.
She, however, added that for the first time, the prize money would be paid to them– players because of such realities.
“It is because of you that for the first time in the history of FIFA, the FIFA women world cup prize money will be paid directly to you, the players,” Samoura said.
The announcement elicited wild jubilation from the nine-time African champions who had worked hard to ease past Canada to secure a spot in the round of 16.
“I know that things have been tough. We have to face the realities of Nigeria. It pains me a lot. It is because of you [the Super Falcons] that, for the first time, the prize money has been ring-fenced in the history of FIFA to ensure that it goes to you,” the FIFA secretary-general said.
FIFA had announced that every player participating in the World Cup group stage will earn $30,000.
The match bonuses will increase to $60,000 in the second round of the competition.
The Falcons have qualified for the round of 16 after finishing second in group B. Every player on the team will be earning at least $60,000 for the feat.
