US Taxes Could Claim Part of Spain’s $50M World Cup Prize

Individual players and staff face additional state 'jock taxes' based on where each match was played. States such as California, New York, and Texas impose their own rates on nonresident athletes' income earned within their borders, which can vary from a few percent to over 13%.

The total tax burden depends on the number of games played in each state and the allocation of prize money among team members. Spain's roster includes players who may have different residency statuses, affecting their personal tax liabilities.

FIFA and the U.S. government have not announced any special tax arrangement for the 2026 World Cup, leaving teams to plan for the tax consequences. Spain's football federation may seek professional advice to minimize the hit, but without a treaty or exemption, the taxes are likely to stand.