Enyimba, Remo Stars set for FIFA windfall from World Cup Qualifiers
Nigerian clubs Enyimba and Remo Stars are among the teams poised to benefit from FIFA’s expanded $355 million Club Benefits Programme, following their contribution of players to the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign.
In a significant boost for clubs worldwide, FIFA has confirmed that, for the first time, payments will not be limited to the World Cup finals alone but will also cover the qualification process, ensuring more clubs are rewarded for releasing players to represent their countries.
The world football governing body announced on Friday that the fund, agreed under its renewed memorandum of understanding with European Football Clubs (EFC), represents a 70 per cent increase from the amount distributed after the 2022 World Cup.
According to FIFA, $100 million has been earmarked for clubs that released players during the qualification series, while $250 million will be shared among clubs whose players participate in the 2026 World Cup finals in the United States, Canada and Mexico. The remaining $5 million will be reserved for administrative costs and other football development initiatives.
FIFA revealed that clubs will receive approximately $2,360 per player for every qualifying match in which a released player was included in a national team matchday squad, regardless of whether the player eventually featured on the pitch.
For Nigerian champions, Remo Stars, the programme is expected to deliver a substantial financial reward.
The Ikenne-based club released four players during the qualification campaign, which ran from November 2023 to October 2025. Benin Republic goalkeeper Adebiyi Obassa was involved in eight qualifying matches, while Kayode Bankole and Sodiq Ismaila each featured in two matchday squads. Togolese forward, Franck Mawuena was also released for three matches.
Based on FIFA’s distribution formula, Remo Stars are projected to receive around $35,400, which translates to approximately ₦48.14 million.
Enyimba are also set to benefit after releasing goalkeeper Olorunleke Ojo for two qualifying matches. The Aba giants are expected to earn roughly $4,720, equivalent to about ₦6.42 million.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino described the expanded programme as a landmark step in recognising the crucial role clubs play in the international game.
"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.
"From approximately 1,000 matches combined from qualifiers and the final tournament, this programme will deliver $355 million back to club football, an increase of 70 per cent compared to the last edition."
He added that the expansion of the 2026 World Cup has created additional opportunities to support clubs across the football ecosystem.
"This is another benefit from the expanded FIFA World Cup, providing more support to the clubs that develop and release the players who compete on the global stage."
The initiative is expected to provide a welcome financial boost for clubs around the world while reinforcing FIFA’s commitment to rewarding teams whose players contribute to the success of international football. For Enyimba and Remo Stars, it is recognition not only of their role in player development but also of their contribution to the global game.
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