The money Argentina will lose if they fail to make the 2018 World Cup
The AFA will miss out on at least 20 million dollars
The winners in Russia could pocket as much as 50 million
Argentina are obliged to be at the World Cup in Russia in 2018. And not just because of their history with the competition or because the have the best player in the world, Lionel Messi, but because the money they will miss out on if they don't qualify. According to a report by Marketing Registrado, the Argentine Football Association (AFA) would lose 20 million dollars if they fail to make it.
In Brazil, at the last World Cup, Argentina earned 25 million dollars as they were beaten in the final by Germany, the current world champions. However, the new FIFA president, Gianni Infantino, has wanted to increase earnings by 22 percent. For that reason, and according to the website dedicated to sports marketing, the AFA would lose 20 million: two for not going to Russia, 10 for not playing in the group stages and eight for a potential loss of sponsorship.
The coming World Cup will see earnings increase considerably, which see two million dollars for qualification and then a further: 10 million if you're eliminated in the groups stages; 12 million for a last 16 knockout; 18 million for losing in the quarterfinals; 25 million for finishing fourth; 30 million for third place; 40 million for the runners up; and 50 million for the winners. Argentina, therefore, would obtain at least 20 million, maybe more, if they reach Russia.
They have to get a result against Ecuador this week to avoid missing out on their first World Cup since Mexico in 1970, something that would leave Messi, once again, without the title he's lacking.
