FIFA reports record-breaking spending in the mid-year transfer window, with World Cup participants accounting for over $3.3 billion in fees.
Key facts
- •World Cup players accounted for over one-third of the total $9.89 billion spent on men's international transfers.
- •More than 12,500 international transfers were registered globally during the mid-year window.
- •Women's international transfer spending reached $28.6 million, more than double the 2025 figure.
- •English clubs led spending, contributing $3.02 billion to men's fees and $8.0 million to women's fees.
- •High-profile moves included Rodri from Manchester City to Barcelona and Bradley Barcola from PSG to Liverpool.
Players who competed in the 2026 World Cup generated more than $3.3 billion in international transfer fees during the recent mid-year window. FIFA announced that these players accounted for over one-third of the record $9.89 billion spent on international transfers in men's football globally.
By the numbers
Record Activity in Global Transfers
FIFA reported that more than 12,500 international transfers were registered during the mid-year window, marking a new record for the volume of moves. Over 260 players from 47 different nationalities who participated in the World Cup changed clubs during this period. The spending surge followed Spain's victory in the tournament this past July.
Growth in Women's Football
The women's professional game also reached record levels, with international transfer spending more than doubling from 2025 to $28.6 million. A total of 1,406 international transfers were registered, representing a 19.2 percent increase over the previous record.
Market Leaders
English clubs were the highest spenders in both the men's and women's international markets. They accounted for $3.02 billion in men's transfer fees and $8.0 million in the women's game.
Timeline
- JulySpain won the World Cup.
- ThursdayFIFA released the study on mid-year transfer window activity.
- September 3The report on record-breaking transfer fees was published.
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This article was independently rewritten by ManyPress editorial AI from reporting originally published by Channel NewsAsia.
