Two Nigerian clubs, Enyimba and Remo Stars, are set to benefit from FIFA’s expanded Club Benefits Programme for 2026 FIFA World Cup.
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This is made possible after the world football governing body confirmed that the compensation payments to now include players released for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches.
FIFA confirmed that a total of $355 million will be distributed to clubs across the globe for releasing players during both the qualification campaign and the World Cup finals, marking a significant increase from previous editions.
Under the new arrangement, clubs that released players for qualifying matches will receive payments on a per-player, per-match basis.
FIFA disclosed that approximately $100 million has been allocated specifically for the qualifiers, with clubs expected to earn at least $2,360 per player for every match in which the player was released.
The initiative represents a major policy shift, as previous editions of the programme only compensated clubs for players involved in the final tournament.
According to FIFA, the expanded package became possible due to the enlarged 2026 FIFA World Cup format, which features more teams and matches.
Remo Stars are among the biggest Nigerian beneficiaries after releasing four players during the qualification series between November 2023 and October 2025.
The Ikenne-based club released Benin Republic goalkeeper Adebiyi Obassa, Nigerian goalkeeper Kayode Bankole, defender Sodiq Ismaila, and Togolese striker Franck Mawuena during the campaign.
Based on FIFA’s calculation model, Remo Stars are expected to receive approximately $35,400, estimated at over ₦48 million.
Former NPFL champions Enyimba are also expected to benefit after releasing goalkeeper Olorunleke Ojo for two qualifying matches.
The Aba giants are projected to earn about $4,720, equivalent to roughly ₦6.4 million.
FIFA also clarified that clubs would qualify for payments provided their players were included in official matchday squads, regardless of whether they featured in the games.
In addition to the qualification payments, FIFA reserved another $250 million for clubs whose players participate in the main tournament scheduled to take place from June 11 to July 19, 2026.
Payments for the tournament phase will be calculated on a per-player, per-day basis.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino said the programme was designed to recognise the contribution of clubs to international football development.
“Through the FIFA World Cup 2026 Club Benefits Programme, and thanks to the inclusion of all qualifying matches for the first time, more clubs than ever before will receive a share of the financial benefits generated by the FIFA World Cup,” Infantino said.
He added that the initiative would strengthen the global football ecosystem by rewarding clubs that develop and release players for international duty.
