Super Falcons’ failure to qualify denies Nigeria $2.5 million FIFA preparation fund

By Tosin Omojola

Nigeria stands to lose out on $2.5 million in FIFA preparation funding following the Super Falcons’ failure to qualify for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.

The development marks a financial setback for Nigeria and ends the team’s unbroken record of appearances at every edition of the Women’s World Cup since the tournament began in 1991.

The $2.5 million grant forms part of FIFA’s financial support package for participating nations at the tournament, scheduled to hold in Brazil from June 24 to July 25, 2027.

Under the arrangement, each of the 32 participating national associations will receive $2.5 million to support preparations for the competition, bringing the total preparation funding to $80 million.

The preparation grant is separate from tournament prize money and other financial distributions available to participating national associations, players and clubs.

FIFA is expected to provide further details of the financial arrangements for the 2027 tournament at its Council meeting in December 2026.

Although the full financial package for the competition has yet to be announced, Nigeria’s failure to qualify means the country will miss out on the preparation grant reserved for participating associations.

The funding arrangement reflects FIFA’s efforts to increase investment in women’s football and bring financial support for women’s national teams closer to the level available at the men’s World Cup.