Multiple US cities that hosted matches during the 2026 World Cup are seeking millions of dollars they believe FIFA promised them for legacy projects, according to a report by The Athletic.

Four executives from these host cities, speaking anonymously to protect relationships, said FIFA management assured them they would each receive $1 million in "legacy" funds. These funds were intended to support football-related infrastructure and social projects. However, despite these verbal assurances from FIFA's senior management, no public statement has been made, and the payments have not yet been delivered.

The cities involved include Seattle, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Dallas, Kansas City, Atlanta, Philadelphia, Miami, Boston, and New York/New Jersey. The executives reported that they have been seeking updates from FIFA staff regarding the status of these payments.

This development follows an announcement by FIFA President Gianni Infantino regarding similar payments to host cities of the 2025 Club World Cup in the United States. The 2026 World Cup, held across the US, Canada, and Mexico, was expanded to 48 teams and lasted 39 days, contributing to record FIFA revenues reportedly reaching $15 billion for the 2023-26 cycle.

The report adds to ongoing scrutiny of FIFA under Infantino, who has faced criticism from UEFA and others over his proposals related to World Cup financing.

Sources

France 24 English (reporting on The Athletic)