Fifa is set to disappoint expectations regarding gender equality in prize money for the upcoming 2027 Women’s World Cup, despite generating a record $15 billion in revenue from this summer’s men’s tournament. Gianni Infantino, the Fifa president, had previously stated that the organization aimed for “equality” in prize funds, igniting hopes that the women’s prize pool would at least match the men’s on a per-team basis.

With 32 teams participating in Brazil next summer compared to 48 teams in the men’s event, a women’s prize pot two-thirds the size of the men’s $655 million would have signified parity. However, reports indicate that the women’s prize money will only be about a third of that amount.

While this represents a significant increase from previous tournaments, some insiders have labeled it a “huge missed open goal” for Fifa. The anticipated prize fund for women is expected to double from $110 million in 2023 to $220 million, marking a more than seven-fold increase compared to the 2019 finals in France.

Fifa officials have engaged with leading female players to discuss investments in the women’s game, linking the decision to the commercial income expected from the 2027 event. Infantino has criticized broadcasters for not paying enough for women’s tournament rights, despite the 933 million viewers in 2023.

Fifa confirmed that 2027 Women’s World Cup teams will receive the same preparation funding as the men’s teams, with amounts exceeding $2.5 million each. Additionally, players will enjoy business class or chartered flights and individual hotel rooms, aligning their provisions with the standards of the men’s World Cup.