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FIFA are facing renewed criticism after several 2026 World Cup host cities in the United States claimed they are still waiting for millions of dollars in promised legacy funding.
The dispute comes despite the governing body reporting record revenues from the expanded tournament.
US cities yet to receive funds from FIFA for hosting 2026 World Cup
Several U.S. cities that hosted matches during the 2026 World Cup are reportedly still waiting to receive $1 million (£745k) legacy payments they say were promised by FIFA.
According to The Athletic, executives from four host city committees claim FIFA officials repeatedly assured them they would receive the same $1m contribution that was awarded to each of the 11 U.S. cities which staged matches during the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup.
The funding was intended to support community football projects, including the construction of mini-pitches and other grassroots initiatives.
However, despite those reported verbal assurances, the payments have yet to be made, and FIFA has declined to comment on the matter.
The uncertainty has created further complications for host city committees, many of which are now winding down following the conclusion of the tournament.
Some are preparing final financial reports but remain unsure whether to account for the expected payments.
The issue has also reignited debate over the financial burden placed on host cities.
While FIFA generated the overwhelming majority of revenue through ticket sales, broadcasting, sponsorship and hospitality, local authorities were responsible for significant costs including security, transport, logistics, fan festivals and wider operational support.
Kansas City alone received almost $87 million (£65 million) in public funding from state and local government to stage the tournament, while additional taxpayer money was spent across other host cities on infrastructure and event operations.
The latest controversy adds to mounting scrutiny surrounding FIFA following criticism over World Cup ticket pricing, governance issues and other post-tournament disputes.
FGG says: FIFA should honour commitments made to World Cup host cities
If FIFA officials did promise these legacy payments, the governing body should move quickly to provide clarity and fulfil those commitments.
Host cities invested enormous sums of public money to help deliver one of the biggest sporting events in history and deserve certainty over what support they will receive.
Legacy funding may represent only a small fraction of FIFA's record revenues, but it could make a lasting difference to grassroots football in the communities that helped make the 2026 World Cup a success.