Florida, USA — Mamelodi Sundowns, South Africa’s dominant footballing force, have arrived in the United States with more than just match fitness on their minds. The Pretoria-based side has not only been welcomed in true American showbiz style—thanks to longtime supporter and global music mogul DJ Khaled—but has also bagged a guaranteed R170 million just for showing up at the FIFA Club World Cup.
In a high-energy video shared by Roc Nation Sports International, the consultancy partner to Sundowns, DJ Khaled was seen hyping up the team’s arrival, flashing their signature yellow jersey and shouting, “Welcome to America, let’s go!” A heartfelt gesture from one of hip-hop’s loudest voices—and one of Mzansi’s most vocal fans abroad.
Big Stage, Bigger Paydays
Sundowns earned their spot at the FIFA Club World Cup by winning the inaugural African Football League and through consistently strong performances in the CAF Champions League. Their participation places them alongside African giants Al Ahly (Egypt), Esperance (Tunisia), and Wydad Casablanca (Morocco).
Each of these African clubs has already locked in a base participation fee of $9.55 million—around R170 million at current exchange rates—just for qualifying. But that’s only the beginning.
FIFA has set up a tiered reward structure that could see Sundowns’ earnings skyrocket based on their performance in the tournament:
- Group stage win: R35.6 million
- Group stage draw: R17.8 million
- Qualification to Round of 16: Additional R133.5 million
- Quarter-finals: R233 million
- Semi-finals: R373.5 million
- Finalists: R533 million
- Tournament winner: R710 million plus the coveted trophy
With these staggering figures, Sundowns’ journey at the Club World Cup isn’t just about continental pride—it’s potentially one of the biggest financial opportunities in the club’s history.
Settling into Florida, Prepping for Big Games
Sundowns have set up base in Bradenton, Florida, where they are preparing for their opening match against Ulsan Hyundai FC next week. Group stage fixtures will also see them face off against European powerhouse Borussia Dortmund and Brazilian champions Fluminense—two formidable opponents that will test the mettle of Rhulani Mokwena’s squad.
While the football will be competitive, the trip has already boosted the team’s international visibility. Their partnership with Roc Nation Sports—founded by Jay-Z and known for its blend of entertainment and elite sport—has positioned Sundowns not just as a football team, but as a growing global brand.
Sundowns: More Than Just a Football Club
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The visit from DJ Khaled is more than celebrity fluff. It signals a growing interest in African football from the global entertainment sector. Sundowns, often referred to as the “Brazilians” of South Africa for their style of play and vibrant colours, are increasingly being recognised beyond the borders of the continent.
With financial incentives this substantial and global eyes watching, the pressure is on for the DStv Premiership champions to perform. But if their domestic dominance is anything to go by, they may just surprise the world’s elite clubs and secure a historic run in the competition.
A New Era for African Clubs on the Global Stage
The FIFA Club World Cup represents a turning point—not just for Mamelodi Sundowns, but for African football as a whole. As the game becomes more globalised, clubs from Africa are starting to reap the financial and reputational rewards that have long been monopolised by their European and South American counterparts.
Whether or not Sundowns lift the trophy, their presence alone is a statement: African clubs are no longer content to sit on the sidelines. They’re here to compete, to win, and yes—to collect the bag.
