Tax Trouble Looms: Ghana national football team Risk Losing Part of 2026 World Cup Earnings
Ghana national football team may face an unexpected financial setback ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, as emerging reports indicate that a portion of their tournament earnings could be reduced due to tax obligations in the United States.
The concern arises from the inability of FIFA to secure a full tax exemption agreement with U.S. authorities for all participating nations. As a result, revenues generated during matches played on American soil—such as prize money and commercial income—could be subject to taxation.
The 2026 tournament, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, will introduce an expanded 48-team format, offering increased financial opportunities. However, unlike the 2022 edition in Qatar—where teams benefited from full tax exemptions—the current framework presents a more complex financial landscape.
This development may particularly affect African nations such as Senegal and DR Congo, whose football associations could see reduced earnings. For federations already operating with limited resources, this could impact both short-term finances and long-term development plans.
On the other hand, countries like Egypt, Morocco, and South Africa may be better positioned due to existing tax treaties with the United States, potentially allowing them to minimize or avoid some tax liabilities.
The implications extend beyond national associations, as players and technical staff are also likely to face taxation on personal earnings made during the tournament. This could reduce their net income and add another layer of complexity to World Cup preparations.
With concerns growing among stakeholders, attention now turns to whether any late agreements or policy adjustments can be reached before kickoff. Until then, Ghana and other affected nations may need to prepare for a scenario where their financial rewards from football’s biggest stage fall short of expectations.