Reliable Spanish press reports, most notably the newspaper "Mundo Deportivo", revealed that the 2026 Spanish Super Cup will set a new record to become the richest edition in the history of the prestigious competition, after the total value of the financial prizes allocated to the participating clubs rose to reach the threshold of 23 million euros.
Anticipated confrontations in the Kingdom
All eyes of football fans are on Saudi Arabia, which is preparing to host the new edition of the tournament, kicking off in just a few days. The tournament schedule features some high-profile matches, with Barcelona opening the competition against Athletic Bilbao in the first semi-final on Wednesday, December 7th, while Real Madrid faces a fiery encounter with their fierce city rivals, Atlético Madrid, in the second semi-final on Thursday, December 8th. The winners of these matches will advance to the decisive final.
Financial boost and support for Spanish football
The tournament's economic report revealed that the total prize money to be distributed among the four qualifying teams has increased by €3 million compared to the 2025 edition, whose prize money was capped at €20 million. Specifically, Barcelona, Real Madrid, Athletic Bilbao, and Atlético Madrid will share the largest portion of the tournament's total prize money in its history, surpassing the previous record of €19,648,486.
In terms of total revenue, the tournament will boost the Royal Spanish Football Federation's coffers with an estimated €51.9 million. This revenue is distributed as follows: €27 million from sponsorship, €11.5 million from organization and participation fees, and €12.69 million from television broadcasting rights. Notably, the Spanish Federation allocates a substantial €28 million of these revenues to support amateur football in Spain, reflecting the strategic importance of this tournament in developing the sport's infrastructure.
Historical context and strategic importance
This is the sixth edition to be held on Saudi Arabian soil, and the fifth consecutive one since the adoption of the new "Final Four" system in January 2020. This system, which includes four teams instead of two, has proven to be a huge success in terms of public appeal and marketing, as it has increased the intensity of the competition and raised the market value of the tournament.
Hosting the tournament in Saudi Arabia holds special significance that transcends the purely sporting aspect. It enhances the Kingdom's standing as a global destination for sports and entertainment, and offers Arab fans the opportunity to see top-tier stars up close. Furthermore, the presence of Spanish football giants Real Madrid and Barcelona guarantees global media coverage and record-breaking viewership, transforming the Spanish Super Cup into a truly international football festival.
