sports

Italy Players Eye €300k Bonus, FIGC Prepped Gifts if World Cup Qualifies

Italy's squad lost the 2026 World Cup play‑off to Bosnia, but before the match players pushed for a €300,000 collective bonus, while the federation had ready-made gifts such as watches.

Before Italy’s 2026 World Cup play‑off loss to Bosnia, players reportedly sought a collective €300,000 bonus—about €10,000 each—if the squad had qualified.

The Italian federation, however, had already arranged sentimental “gift” rewards such as watches, offering a non‑cash alternative in case of qualification.