After their resounding 4-0 victory against Ukraine, which secured their qualification for the 2026 World Cup, the French national team players received a double bonus last November. This unusual reward was endorsed by Philippe Diallo, the president of the French Football Federation, despite the incomprehension of some of his colleagues.

After winning the 2018 edition and reaching the final in 2022, the French national team will try to shine again at the 2026 World Cup, scheduled from June 11 to July 19 in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Les Bleus secured their place at the summer's biggest tournament with a resounding 4-0 victory against Ukraine on November 13 at the Parc des Princes. Following this impressive win at PSG's home ground, Didier Deschamps' players have reportedly demanded a double bonus, according to L'Équipe.

The request, made by captain Kylian Mbappé, was reportedly quickly accepted by Philippe Diallo, the president of the French Football Federation. After a victory, each national team player usually receives around €21,000, but this time everyone received approximately €42,000. Didier Deschamps, his main assistants, and the rest of the French national team staff also reportedly received a double bonus.

"The French national team is the economic lifeblood of the federation."

This unusual bonus was reportedly not well received by all members of the French Football Federation (FFF), some of whom felt that qualifying for the World Cup had become the norm. When questioned by L'Équipe, Philippe Diallo justified this small gift by explaining that the players contribute to the federation's coffers through sponsorships and television rights.

"There is no controversy," assures the head of French football. "I consider the French national team to be the economic lifeblood of the federation. At that moment, after this qualification, it was an opportunity to recognize its contribution. It is in this spirit that this double bonus was granted."

While waiting to compete in the next World Cup in Group I, facing Senegal, Norway and a team yet to be determined (Bolivia, Suriname or Iraq), the French team will launch its 2026 season with a gala match against Brazil on March 26 in Boston, before facing Colombia three days later near Washington.