Egypt FA unveils massive prize money boost ahead of Egypt Cup final

The Egyptian Football Association has announced a major overhaul of its competition reward structure, unveiling a new package of financial prizes worth more than 11 million Egyptian pounds across domestic tournaments and youth competitions.

The decision comes just days before the highly anticipated Egypt Cup final between Pyramids FC and ZED FC, scheduled to take place next Sunday at Cairo International Stadium.

In one of the most notable changes, the federation confirmed that the winner of the Egypt Cup will now receive a financial reward of 2 million Egyptian pounds, while the runner-up will earn 1 million pounds. The move is seen as part of broader efforts to raise competitiveness and provide stronger financial incentives within Egyptian football.

According to the federation, the Board of Directors officially approved the revised prize structure as the 2025/26 season approaches its conclusion, with significant emphasis placed not only on senior competitions but also on youth development and lower-division football.

The federation also approved financial rewards for clubs achieving promotion from the second division. Teams promoted from the second division (A) will each receive 1 million pounds, bringing the total allocation to 3 million pounds. Meanwhile, clubs promoted from the second division (B) will be awarded 500,000 pounds each, with total payouts reaching 1.5 million pounds.

A substantial portion of the package has also been directed toward youth football development, highlighting the federation’s renewed focus on nurturing talent across various age categories.

Rewards were approved for Republic champions born in 2005, 2007, 2009 and 2011 competing in the first division youth categories, with total allocations reaching 500,000 pounds. Additional rewards include 450,000 pounds for Republic champions in the second division youth competitions and 325,000 pounds for champions in the third division.

The federation further expanded incentives for youth competitions involving players born in 2007, 2009 and 2011, allocating 450,000 pounds for first division champions, alongside 300,000 pounds each for champions in second division (A) and second division (B).

Sector championship prizes for age groups born between 2007 and 2012 were also approved, totaling 450,000 pounds as part of a broader strategy aimed at strengthening grassroots football and improving the competitive environment for young players.

The announcement signals a clear attempt by the Egyptian Football Association to modernise financial structures within domestic football and create stronger developmental pathways from youth levels to senior competition.

With the Egypt Cup final approaching and clubs across the country reacting positively to the increased rewards, the federation hopes the new financial model will improve motivation, competitiveness, and long-term investment in Egyptian football talent.