England Women CALL OFF World Cup bonus row talks to ‘fully focus on the tournament’… after the FA refused to top up FIFA bonuses

The England women’s team have written an open letter confirming they have suspended talks with the FA over bonus payments in anticipation of the World Cup kicking off this week.

The Lionesses are at odds with the governing body after Mail Sport revealed earlier this month that players will not receive any bonuses no matter how far they progress in the tournament.

There has been no breakthrough in negotiations since then, and with England set to play its first game against Haiti on Saturday, the team released a joint statement confirming that talks have been suspended for the time being.

The letter said: ‘Last year we presented concerns to the FA regarding our bonus and commercial structures. The hope was that the talks would lead to a solution before the start of our World Cup.

“We are disappointed that no solution has yet been found. We see the success of these discussions, through player input and a transparent long-term plan, as key to the growth of women’s football in England.

Sarina Wiegman’s team has failed to reach an agreement with the FA in recent weeks

“With our opening match coming up, we Lionesses have decided to pause discussions, with the full intention of revisiting them after the tournament.

“We collectively feel a strong sense of responsibility to grow the game. And while our focus now shifts completely to the upcoming tournament, we believe every tackle, pass and goal will contribute to the work we want to do off the field.

“We look forward to playing this World Cup for our country, with pride, passion and determination.”

The letter was signed by the entire crew and skipper Millie Bright posted on her social media.

The FA’s position on bonuses contrasts with FIFA’s, with each player taking part in the group stage receiving £26,000 from the international governing body.

This reward is increased for players who reach the final stage of the tournament as each player on the winning team will pocket £211,000.

England will believe they can go all out this year in Australia and New Zealand after winning the European Championship in 2022.

Despite injuries to captain Leah Williamson, Beth Mead and Fran Kirby, Sarina Wiegman’s team is still one of the favorites for the highly anticipated tournament.

The Lionesses have been placed in a group with Haiti, Denmark and China and will aim to serenely advance to the knockout stage.

England have reached the semi-finals of the last two World Cups, but want to go one step further this time.

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