FIFA Council approves prize fund boost for 2026 World Cup
December 18 – The FIFA Council has approved a record $655 million prize fund for the 2026 World Cup, a massive 50% increase on Qatar 2022 prize money.
Author: Andy Elliott
FIFA returns to gaming in partnership with Netflix and Delphi Interactive
December 18 – This summer, Netflix Games will launch a new FIFA football simulation, available exclusively to Netflix subscribers during the 2026 World Cup.
Donald Trump expands travel restrictions ahead of FIFA World Cup 2026
December 18 – The U.S. administration has tightened the screws on the 2026 World Cup again, with yet more directives and an expansion of travel restrictions.
FIFA World Cup trophy set for whistle-stop tour ahead of 2026 iteration
December 18 – On January 3, 2026, FIFA and Coca-Cola will send the World Cup trophy on a global meet-and-greet road show, and just like the Olympic flame, this tour is less about logistics and more about symbolism.
AFC backs social impact of SAFF Seminar
December 16 – The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has released a statement backing the South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) in the delivery of its SAFF Social Responsibility Seminar 2025, as the regional body continues to place greater emphasis on football’s role beyond the pitch.
Coritiba join MCO group with sale of minority stake to Ecuador’s IDV
December 16 – Ecuador’s Grupo Independiente Del Valle (IDV) has acquired a minority stake in Brazil’s Coritiba to expand their network of clubs.
Dutch Football Association narrows down location choices for KNVB Campus
December 16 – The Dutch Football Association (KNVB) has confirmed it will stick to its two-track process as it weighs up the long-term future of the KNVB Campus, keeping both the Zeist and Almere regions in play until at least the summer of 2026.
Tyler Kurz from True North fills new role at NSL
December 16 – The Northern Super League (NSL) has appointed Tyler Kurz as Vice President, Club & League Services – a newly–created role focused on supporting clubs and strengthening league-wide operations.
Aston Villa secure global headgear partnership with New Era
December 16 – Aston Villa have added another strand to their commercial operation with the launch of a new partnership with global headwear brand New Era, unveiling an exclusive licensed collection that pushes the club further into the lifestyle and fashion space.
Barcelona close Hong Kong commercial office to improve operational efficiency
December 16 – FC Barcelona have discontinued operations at their Hong Kong commercial office, 13 years after becoming the club’s first overseas branch in 2013.
Oceania Football Confederation to join Sports for Nature Framework
December 16 – The Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) has become the first continental association to become a Sports for Nature Signatory, marking a commitment to create and sustain healthy natural environments across Oceania.
South Africa boss Hugo Broos apologises for Mbekezeli Mbokazi comments
December 16 – South Africa manager Hugo Broos has denied accusation of racism and sexism following comments on the late arrival of Mbekezeli Mbokazi at the latest national team camp.
Red Star sign partnership with Dubai Academy
December 16 – Serbian football powerhouse Red Star Belgrade have signed a co-operation agreement with the Eagles Sports Academy from Dubai, a renowned sports institution focused on developing young football talents and coaches.
Huge cost of brief meeting with Messi in India laid bare
December 16 – When a handshake and a photograph cost $11,000, touching greatness doesn’t cheap.
Growth in popularity of football in the U.S. highlighted by Nielsen report
December 16 – Nielsen, the gold standard in audience measurement, data and analytics, has released a new “Tops of Sports” report that looks at the forces shaping U.S. sports media in the year ahead, and soccer is increasingly attracting viewers.