The DFB and the national team players have agreed on performance-related bonuses for their performance at the 2018 World Cup in Russia. The bonuses are based on the team’s performance and have been set in accordance with the agreements made for the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, as well as for the European Cuts in 2012 and 2016.

No bonuses will be awarded for the group stages or reaching the round of 16. Players will receive €75,000 for reaching the quarter finals, €125,000 for the semis, €150,000 for third-placed and €200,000 for reaching the final. Were Die Mannschaft to win their fifth World Cup, each player would receive €350,000. Another World Cup win would be new territory for the DFB. Only Italy (1934 and 1938) and Brazil (1958 and 1962) have successfully defended a World Cup title.

Grindel: “Another World Cup win would go down in history”

DFB president Reinhard Grindel said: “The opportunity to make national team history and defend the World Cup title is huge motivation for the players. That would go down in history and be worth a very special bonus. It’s clear though, that it is the sporting challenge rather than the financial award that is most important for the players. I want to personally thank Friedrich Curtius and Manuel Neuer, who led these discussions, for their contribution to a successful outcome”.

General secretary Dr. Friedrich Curtius continued, “The talks with captain Manuel Neuer and with the whole national team council were fair, open and uncomplicated. They’re proof of the good relationship between the national team and the association”.

National team sporting director Oliver Bierhoff reacted, “This agreement ensures the necessary clarity in good time so we can now fully concentrate on sporting achievements. As in past years, the players are setting the bar high – it’s a good sign”.