Kosovo players to split €1.5m government bonus if they reach World Cup
Kosovo’s government announced on Thursday that it will reward the national football team with €1.5 million ($1.74 million) if they secure a spot at the 2026 World Cup.
The Balkan nation, aiming for its first-ever World Cup appearance, finished second in their qualifying group with 11 points, earning a place in March’s European playoffs.
Kosovo will now face Slovakia in the playoff semi-final, with the winner advancing to face either Turkey or Romania in a final match for a World Cup berth.
Caretaker Prime Minister Albin Kurti confirmed the government’s incentive, stating that €500,000 ($579,700) would be awarded if the team defeats Slovakia. “Secondly, in the event of qualification for the World Cup, we commit to an additional €1 million reward,” Kurti said during a televised cabinet meeting.
“Let’s go Kosovo, always with you,” he added, showing his support for the team’s historic campaign.
Kosovo became a member of UEFA and FIFA in 2016, eight years after declaring independence from Serbia in 2008.
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