CAF Raises Champions League Winners’ Prize to $6 Million

CAF Raises Champions League Winners’ Prize to $6 Million

By Our Reporter 

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has announced a significant increase in prize money for its interclub competitions, with the winners of this season’s TotalEnergies CAF Champions League set to receive a record $6 million, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The financial boost comes ahead of the final between AS FAR and Mamelodi Sundowns and reflects CAF’s continued investment in the development and commercial growth of African club football.

CAF disclosed that funding for its interclub competitions has risen sharply over the past five years, increasing from $19 million in 2021 to $48 million in 2026 — a 153 percent rise since Patrice Motsepe assumed office as CAF president.

According to the continental governing body, the enhanced financial structure forms part of a broader strategy aimed at improving the competitiveness, commercial value and global visibility of African club football while strengthening the financial sustainability of participating clubs.

Under the revised prize structure, the winners of the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League will earn $6 million, while champions of the CAF Confederation Cup will receive $4 million.

CAF also confirmed that financial rewards across different stages of both competitions have been increased since 2021, with additional support introduced for clubs participating in the preliminary rounds.

The solidarity initiative, designed to assist clubs with travel, accommodation and operational expenses, was first introduced during the 2024/25 season with payments of $50,000 per club. CAF has now doubled that amount to $100,000 for the current campaign.

The organisation stated that the increased investment has already produced measurable results, including record participation numbers across its major competitions.

A total of 62 clubs featured in the 2025/26 CAF Champions League, while 58 teams participated in the CAF Confederation Cup — both representing competition records.

CAF further revealed that the overall prize pool for clubs reaching the group stage and beyond in the CAF Champions League has risen to $19.6 million, while the Confederation Cup now carries a total prize fund of $11.9 million.

The governing body believes the improved financial incentives have elevated competition standards, enhanced professionalism among clubs, attracted stronger commercial partnerships and increased global broadcast exposure for African football.

CAF added that the long-term strategy is intended to create sustainable growth opportunities for clubs, players, sponsors and broadcast partners while securing the future development of African interclub competitions.