Mamelodi Sundowns Eye Massive Payday at 2025 FIFA Club World Cup
Mamelodi Sundowns stand on the brink of a financial windfall at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, with the potential to earn up to USD 125 million (over R2 billion) if they go all the way in the tournament. With three crucial group-stage matches ahead, the South African champions are not only fighting for glory but also for unprecedented financial rewards.
The 32-team tournament, currently underway in the United States, has seen FIFA unveil an eye-popping prize money structure aimed at incentivising performance at every stage. Each group stage victory will earn clubs USD 2 million (R37.5 million), while a draw fetches USD 1 million (R18.7 million). With three matches in the opening round, Sundowns could earn up to USD 6 million (R112.6 million) without even reaching the knockouts.
But that’s only the beginning. Advancing through each stage promises even greater returns:
- Round of 16: USD 7.5 million (R140.8 million)
- Quarter-final: USD 13.125 million (R246.3 million)
- Semi-final: USD 21 million (R393.9 million)
- Runner-up: USD 30 million (R562.7 million)
- Champion: USD 40 million (R750.3 million)
If Sundowns were to win all their matches and lift the title, they would pocket the full prize package from each round, bringing their total earnings to a staggering USD 125 million, more than R2 billion — a figure that dwarfs any prize ever earned by an African club in history.
The Brazilians begin their campaign against South Korea’s Ulsan HD on Tuesday, before facing German giants Borussia Dortmund on 21 June and Brazilian outfit Fluminense on 25 June. With only two teams progressing from each group, every match holds enormous weight both competitively and financially.
This Club World Cup appearance marks a historic moment for Sundowns, who qualified after dominating the CAF Champions League. Their inclusion in this expanded global tournament not only raises their profile but gives the club a real chance to boost their coffers in a way that could transform their future.
As the eyes of Africa remain fixed on Rulani Mokwena’s side, the stakes have never been higher — on the pitch and on the balance sheet.
