Football is supposed to be about dreams but for many nations heading to the next World Cup, it’s turning into a financial headache.
FIFA has failed to secure a tax-free agreement with the United States, and now more than half of the 48 teams are set to lose money just by showing up.
While big European teams like England and France are protected through tax treaties, smaller nations like Curaçao and Cape Verde are getting hit hard with taxes that could wipe out their earnings.
It’s brutal. The same tournament, the same stage but completely different financial realities.
Even giants like Brazil aren’t fully safe. Coaches and players could face double taxation, while smaller federations struggle just to stay afloat. Add rising travel costs and reduced allowances, and suddenly the “world’s biggest tournament” feels unfair before a ball is even kicked.
This World Cup isn’t just about who wins on the pitch it’s about who can afford to compete off it.
