Spain won the 2026 FIFA World Cup, securing a $50 million prize from FIFA. However, many players, coaches, and referees involved in the tournament face complex U.S. tax obligations on income earned during the event. Additionally, 17 of the 26 Spanish national team players will owe taxes in Spain, where residents are taxed on worldwide income, according to fortune.com.
The U.S. applies a so-called “jock tax” to athletes who perform services within the country, requiring non-resident players to pay taxes on income earned during the World Cup. This tax rule also extends to artists and actors. FIFA has typically secured tax exemptions for itself and participating teams from host nations since 2010, but the U.S. has not granted such relief for the 2026 tournament, fortune.com reported.
This situation contrasts with previous World Cups held in South Africa, Brazil, Russia, and Qatar, where FIFA and teams received tax exemptions. The U.S. tax treatment means that Spanish players and staff face dual tax liabilities, complicating their financial outcomes despite the tournament’s lucrative prize. The tax implications highlight the challenges international athletes face when competing in the U.S.
RCM Legal noted that Spanish players who are tax residents must pay taxes on their global income, including earnings from the World Cup. Among them is Lamine Yamal, who plays for FC Barcelona. The $50 million prize money, while a major financial reward, will be subject to these layered tax obligations in both the U.S. and Spain, according to fortune.com.