Socceroos World Cup players await pay three months after tournament
Socceroos players from the 2026 World Cup remain unpaid three months after the tournament ended, with Football Australia citing US tax complications.
Socceroos players have not been paid their match fees from the 2026 World Cup, which ended on 3 July. Australia lost to Egypt in round 32.
Payment was due two weeks after breaking camp but has been delayed. Football Australia blamed US tax issues.
Each player earns around $6,000 per match. Players in all six games are owed about $36,000 each.
Football Australia posted a $23 million loss over two financial years. The body is working with the Professional Footballers union to fix the issue.
It is waiting for specialist advice on US tax rules. Some players are also worried about upcoming friendly matches in the Middle East due to safety fears.
- 3 July 2026
- Tournament end date
- $6,000
- Match fee per player
- Around $36,000
- Total owed per full-squad player
- $23 million
- FA loss over two years
Why it mattersPlayers are thousands of dollars out of pocket; the delay signals serious financial pressure at Football Australia amid broader pay disputes.
AustraliaAustralia's national football teams are locked in pay disputes with their governing body, which faces significant financial losses.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 2 h ago
