By hoisting the Asian Cup trophy, Australia have become the princes of soccer’s poorest tournament.
While their counterparts the world over play in continental championships for substantial prize money, the Socceroos will receive none from the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) after their 2-1 extra-time win over South Korea on Saturday night at ANZ Stadium in Sydney.
But, that’s not to say the Socceroos haven’t been compensated.
Under the collective bargaining agreement struck between the players’ union and Football Federation Australia, each member of the squad will collect $103,148 for winning the tournament.
But still, the lack of prize money is an embarrassing statistic for Asia’s premier football tournament.
By way of comparison, the winners of the Africa Cup of Nations, being staged in Equatorial Guinea, will receive $US1.5 million ($A1.93 million) in prize money.
Australian Brendan Schwab, vice-president of soccer’s global players’ union, wants answers, especially when the tournament is bringing in a lot of money.
“I don’t think there is a suggestion that the AFC cannot afford to pay prize money for this tournament,” he said.
“Historically, football associations have taken it up without success with the AFC and I do believe it is a topic that needs to be put on the table.”
In a statement, the AFC denied it had the funds to pay prize money for the Asian Cup, calling itself a non-profit entity.
“Generally, AFC is a non-profit making association,” it said.
“As such, any surpluses generated through its activities are reinvested in its competitions and other football development activities.”
NaBUru38
Guest
The Asian Cup wasn't shown on television in Latin America, as far as I know. That's unforgivable.
Phutbol
Guest
Non-story. Different story for ACL where some of the Wanderers are on minimum wages. the roos are all very well compensated and paid match fees. Prize money would go to FFA anyway. i'm sure they were fully aware there was not pot of gold at the end of the rainbow. No one complaining here except the PFA. Money better spent on football development.
c
Guest
world cup 2014 prize money http://mobile.reuters.com/article/idUSBRE9B40QG20131205?irpc=932
Dm
Guest
Us$10 mil was to be split over 1s t 2nd 3rd
Uncle Junior
Guest
As long as the players receive appropriate compensation for their effort, I can't see why anyone would have an issue with no prizemoney except the winning Member Federation (i.e. FFA). So, if the FFA isn't bothered it's got nothing to do with the PFA.
Batou
Guest
I'm with you guys. If any of the players are feeling hard done by I'd be very surprised too. Imagine what this has done for most of them in terms of both their career prospects (potential for transfers to bigger teams, better pay deals etc) and their sponsorship value.
albatross
Roar Pro
To be frank decent prize money is the only way the Confederation of African Football can ensure that the Euro based players will turn up for the ACoN (CAN).
AZ_RBB
Guest
ACL prize money is a joke as well but that comes down to the rubbish TV deal they're stuck with.
nickoldschool
Roar Guru
If it's the case then am all for it too. The only thing I dont want is for some wealthy dudes in suits getting richer from the comp.
Ben of Phnom Penh
Roar Guru
I'm happy seeing no prize money for the AFC Asian Cup and more funds available for football development for some of our less fortunate members.
Waz
Guest
The prize for Australian football was much, much bigger than simply prize money. This win and this tournament must not be taken in isolation but rather seen as part of the journey Football in this country is on and a prize cheque for winning would be a drop in the ocean compared to the bigger picture.
britesparke
Roar Rookie
Very poor indeed! Sure the prestige of winning the tournament carries more weight than being compensated in monetary terms but one has to question where the revenues for the broadcasting rights go - Do the FFA receive the money on behalf of the host nation? We hear that not only attendances at games are at record levels for this tournament but so many millions(nationally and internationally) have tuned in to match broadcasts. Where is that money? There has to be a prize pool for this type of tournament!
Daws
Guest
I don't think the players care at this point in time. $100000 is not something to be laughed at in Australian football.
JR Salazar
Guest
A very weak argument from the AFC. I think the FFA needs to press the issue. See through this, Australia.