# US World Cup Host Cities Seek Unpaid Legacy Funds from FIFA

*Multiple US cities hosting World Cup matches claim FIFA promised them $1 million each for legacy funds, but payments have not been made.*

August 5, 2026 · Sports

## At a glance

- Multiple US World Cup host cities claim FIFA promised $1 million each.
- Cities include Seattle, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and more.
- Payments have not been made, prompting cities to request updates.

Several US cities that hosted matches for the FIFA World Cup are now seeking millions of dollars they believe were promised by FIFA, according to The Athletic. Four anonymous executives from World Cup cities claim that FIFA management assured them of $1 million each in 'legacy' funds to support football infrastructure and social projects. These cities, including Seattle, San Francisco, and Los Angeles, have not received the payments and are now requesting updates from FIFA.

## What are 'legacy funds'?

Legacy funds are typically used by FIFA to provide financial support for host cities to develop football-related infrastructure and community projects. These funds are intended to leave a lasting impact in the host cities even after the event has concluded.

## Which cities are involved?

The cities involved include Seattle, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Dallas, Kansas City, Atlanta, Philadelphia, Miami, Boston, and New York/New Jersey. These cities hosted matches during the recent World Cup, which was co-hosted by the US, Canada, and Mexico.

## Why are cities seeking the payments now?

The cities have begun to seek the promised payments after FIFA announced similar contributions to host cities of the 2025 Club World Cup in the United States. This announcement has prompted the host cities of the 2022 World Cup to question why they have not received their promised funds.

## What is FIFA's response?

FIFA has not made any public statement regarding the promised payments to the US host cities. The four executives from the host cities claim that FIFA management verbally assured them of the $1 million contribution but have not provided any written confirmation or made the payments.

## Sources

- BSS

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Source: https://pulsetoday.com.bd/en/sports/us-world-cup-cities-seek-millions-promised-by-fifa