American entrepreneurs Jennifer Mackesy and Justin Fishkin launched the World Sevens Football tournament, linking their ownership stakes in Chelsea Women and NWSL side Gotham FC to the event’s profile. Eight clubs will compete this season, following earlier editions in Estoril and Fort Lauderdale. The competition’s prize pool shrinks to $1.5 million (£1.1 million), and aims to attract new sponsors across continents, a sharp drop from the previous $5 million offering.

The champion will pocket $500,000 (£372,000), while the runner‑up receives $250,000 (£186,000). For reference, Bayern Munich collected £1.8 million ($2.5 million) when it won the inaugural edition. These figures reflect the tournament’s scaled‑back commercial model. The top four clubs split their earnings evenly, with half contractually earmarked for players and staff and the remainder at the club’s discretion.

Splitting prize money ensures that athletes benefit directly from the tournament’s modest purse, a factor that could influence club participation decisions next year. With fewer funds than earlier seasons, clubs may weigh travel costs against the guaranteed player share. Nevertheless, the format continues to draw global viewership. The World Sevens thus remains a showcase for emerging talent despite a reduced financial incentive.