Morocco has secured at least $31.5 million in FIFA performance prize money after reaching the quarterfinals of the 2026 World Cup, a run fueled in part by 18-year-old midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi, who switched his international allegiance from France to Morocco just weeks before the tournament. His estimated market value sits at roughly €50 million, making him one of the most valuable teenagers in world football.
A dual-national prodigy, born in Senlis, France, who captained France’s U21 side, he switched his allegiance to Morocco in May 2026, with FIFA approval. Now he’s preparing to face France in the quarterfinals.
The money game behind the beautiful game
Morocco’s $31.5 million floor figure could climb further with each additional win. Morocco’s 2022 World Cup semifinal appearance was already a watershed moment for African football. Reaching the quarterfinals again, this time with the tournament co-hosted by the US, Mexico, and Canada, cements the Atlas Lions as a legitimate force.
Football’s tokenization wave hasn’t stopped
