MLS & Players: Club World Cup Pay Dispute
MLS and the MLSPA are embroiled in a heated dispute over Club World Cup prize money, with players demanding a fair share of the financial rewards. The Seattle Sounders spearheaded the push for equitable compensation, highlighting player discontent with the current terms. The MLSPA has labeled MLS’s proposal as “retaliatory” and inadequate, sparking further tension. At the heart of the conflict is a revised collective bargaining agreement, with the MLSPA seeking a larger percentage of the revenue. This disagreement impacts LAFC, Inter Miami CF, and Seattle Sounders, who are set to compete. News Directory 3 brings you the details of this unfolding situation as negotiations continue. Wondering how this will affect player participation? Discover what’s next.
MLS, MLSPA Clash Over Club World Cup Prize Money, Player Compensation
Updated June 09, 2025
Ongoing discussions between Major League Soccer (MLS) and the MLS Players Association (MLSPA) regarding Club World Cup prize money and player compensation have yet to yield an agreement.The dispute centers on a revised section of the collective bargaining agreement (CBA).
The Seattle sounders FC ignited the debate with a protest on June 1, as players donned shirts reading “Club World Cash Grab” and ”Fair Share Now.” The MLSPA backed the players’ demand for a fair portion of the FIFA Club World Cup prize money earned by the team’s qualification.
The original CBA stipulated that players receive 50% of revenue from external tournaments, capped at $1 million. MLS proposed granting players on the three participating teams 20% of performance-related payments for wins,draws,and advancement,according to a source familiar with the discussions. in addition to participation money, players would collectively receive $1 million.
LAFC previously secured $250,000 collectively for their victory against Club america on May 31, guaranteeing their spot in the tournament.
The MLSPA received the proposal but has not formally responded, though a source indicated they are seeking a larger percentage.
The MLSPA released a statement calling MLS’s actions “retaliatory” and inadequate.
“The timing, substance, and retaliatory nature of the proposal sends a clear message: MLS does not respect or value players’ efforts regarding this tournament. Although not surprised, the players and the MLSPA are deeply disappointed by this message,” the MLSPA said.
The MLSPA further stated that MLS introduced “back-end compensation of 20%, an amount that remains below the international standard” and “did not add a single dollar for players from the $28,650,000 windfall that MLS will be paid by FIFA,” leaving the players’ share at “barely 10%.”
The current CBA remains in effect due to the lack of agreement. While a strike is prohibited under the CBA, players retain the right to engage in protected actions under federal labor law.
LAFC, Inter Miami CF, and the Seattle Sounders are set to compete in the Club World Cup, which begins Saturday and continues through July 13.
What’s next
Negotiations between MLS and the MLSPA are expected to continue as the Club World cup approaches, with both sides seeking a resolution that addresses player compensation and prize money distribution.