News Focus
- The French Football Federation (FFF) wants players to accept lower bonuses for the 2026 World Cup.
- FFF President Philippe Diallo blamed poor FIFA prize money and bad currency exchange rates.
- Players are confused because the FFF earns €100 million per year from its Nike sponsorship deal.
- The federation recently doubled qualification bonuses when France secured their spot at the tournament.
- Diallo will meet the squad next week at Clairefontaine to discuss the financial cuts.
The France national team faces tension ahead of their World Cup preparations. Federation president Philippe Diallo has asked the players to reduce their bonus payments for the 2026 tournament. He explained that FIFA will offer less prize money than expected. He also noted that the dollar is weak against the euro, which makes costs higher.
However, many players feel surprised by this request. The French FA receives €100 million every year from its record contract with Nike. Just months ago, the same federation doubled merit payments to celebrate World Cup qualification.
The FFF is trying to save money across all its teams. This includes cuts to the senior men’s and women’s squads. Diallo will travel to Clairefontaine next week to speak with the players directly. The team begins their World Cup training camp at the national centre at that time.