The celebrations from the 2026 FIFA World Cup have barely faded, but a fresh controversy has cast a shadow over football’s biggest tournament. Eleven United States host cities are reportedly still waiting for promised legacy payments from FIFA, raising new questions about transparency and accountability at the top of the global game.
Hosting the World Cup was never a small task. Cities across the United States invested heavily in security, transport, logistics, and fan experiences as millions of supporters descended on North America for the expanded tournament, which Spain eventually won after 39 days of football across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
According to reports, four executives from World Cup host committees said FIFA officials repeatedly assured them that each U.S. host city would receive a $1 million legacy contribution. The money was expected to fund mini football pitches and community projects, mirroring a public commitment made by FIFA president Gianni Infantino to cities that hosted the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup.
Those payments, however, have yet to arrive. FIFA has reportedly remained silent despite repeated requests for updates, and the governing body declined to comment when contacted about the claims.
The dispute has surprised many because FIFA’s finances appear strong. Reports estimate the organisation generated more than $15 billion in revenue during the 2023 to 2026 commercial cycle, with the World Cup itself operating on a budget of roughly $2.7 billion. Against those figures, the reported $11 million commitment represents only a small fraction of tournament revenue.
The issue also arrives during an uncomfortable period for FIFA leadership. Former FIFA vice president Prince Ali bin Al Hussein has publicly accused the organisation of failing to pay prize money owed to Jordan following the Arab Cup. He claimed support for Infantino’s expected 2027 re-election was linked to financial assistance, writing: “The whole situation amounts to blackmail. And we refuse to give in to that.”
Meanwhile, pressure on Infantino continues to grow. Reports suggest several football associations are reconsidering their support ahead of the 2027 FIFA presidential election, while criticism has intensified following other governance disputes.
For the host cities, the focus remains simple. They fulfilled their role in delivering one of football’s biggest spectacles. Now they are waiting for FIFA to honour what they believe was repeatedly promised.
