Women’s World success gives SFA a windfall
The SFA is set for a potential milliondollar windfall as a consequence of Scotland qualifying for next summer’s Women’s World Cup in France.
The financial allocation for the tournament was announced on Friday, with FIFA doubling the prize fund from $15m in Canada three years ago to $30m.
The winner will receive $4m, which is also twice what the United States received for beating Japan in 2015.
An SFA spokesman said yesterday that the governing body will receive $750,000 (nearly £600,000) just for the team qualifying.
However, FIFA have set aside a further $20m to assist the 24 competing nations with their preparations, and also to compensate clubs.
The SFA would also receive additional prize money if Scotland progress beyond the group stage in France.
Shelley Kerr’s side will know their fate when the draw for the Finals is made in Paris on December 8.
Despite the increases, some players’ associations have pointed out that the gender gap for World Cup prize money has actually got bigger.
Prize money at this year’s men’s World Cup in Russia was $400m, with winners France receiving $38m.
A statement from the world players’ association FIFPro said: “We note the willingness of FIFA to increase prize money for the Women’s World Cup, and make structural improvements to support women’s football.
“However, despite these changes, football remains even further from the goal of equality for all World Cup players, regardless of gender.”