Spain’s midfielder #16 Rodri lifts the trophy with his teammates after winning the 2026 World Cup football tournament final match between Spain and Argentina at the New York/New Jersey Stadium in East Rutherford on July 19, 2026. (Photo by FRANCK FIFE / AFP)
Spain could lose as much as 30 per cent of the estimated $50 million prize money it earned for winning the 2026 FIFA World Cup due to United States federal tax laws, according to reports.
Under US tax regulations, income generated from activities carried out within the country is generally taxable. Payments made to non-resident foreign athletes are typically subject to a 30 per cent federal withholding tax unless a tax treaty or another exemption applies.
Spain secured the 2026 FIFA World Cup title after defeating Argentina 1-0 in the final at the New York New Jersey Stadium on Sunday, July 19.
FIFA has announced that the tournament winners will receive $34 million from its record $871 million prize pool for the expanded 48-team competition.
