FIFA pays Jordan overdue prize money amid Prince Ali's blackmail claims

Jordan's national football team has finally received overdue prize money for their participation in the 2025 Arab Cup. The announcement came from Prince Ali bin Hussein, president of the Jordan Football Association, just two days after he accused FIFA of "blackmail." He criticized FIFA President Gianni Infantino for backing out of a proposal to sell a stake in the World Cup, claiming FIFA had pressured him to endorse Infantino in exchange for financial support.

The delay in payment, which had been outstanding since December, sparked outrage among players and staff. Prince Ali expressed gratitude over receiving the funds, which he emphasized should have been delivered eight months ago. He took to social media to thank FIFA for the sudden resolution but maintained that their issues with FIFA's leadership remain unresolved. He alleged that FIFA had suggested that supporting Infantino would assist Jordan's football association in overcoming its financial challenges.

FIFA did not respond to requests for comment regarding Ali's serious allegations. The organization recently faced a backlash over its abandoned plans to sell commercial rights to the World Cup. In a crisis meeting held in Morocco, FIFA leadership offered apologies for the missteps while reaffirming their support for Infantino, who is seeking a fourth term in office during elections scheduled for March.

Despite the receipt of the prize money, Prince Ali remains firm in his stance against Infantino's leadership. He stated that the recent developments do not alter his position and confirmed that he and the Jordan Football Association will not endorse Infantino in the upcoming election. This situation highlights ongoing tensions between national associations and FIFA, particularly in the context of leadership and financial accountability.