The England Lionesses not only took home the glory with their historic victory at the Euros 2022 final, but they’ll also be taking home a huge bonus for their efforts.
The Lionesses’ victory over the weekend ended England's 56 year wait for a major trophy by claiming a first tournament win since 1966.
Moreover, they dealt Germany their first ever loss in a European Championship final, bagging the top spot with a 2-1 score.
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Earlier this month, The Telegraph revealed that the team would earn an additional £55,000 if they won the European Championship.
The payout amounts to £1.3 million, making it the most generous scheme between their players and the FA so far, according to the outlet.
Some athletes could end up taking home more than £72,000 when adding on appearance fees, which are currently reported to be up to £2,000.
Whether these fees are donated to charity or kept as part of their wages, the sum represents a major opportunity for the team, especially given the average wage in the Women’s Super League is estimated at less than £50,000.
These wages are in stark contrast to the average £60,000-a-week earned by Premier League players, as is the bonus, which would’ve been £5 million for the male England players had they won the Euros last year.
Nonetheless, sources told The Telegraph that the team are over the moon with the FA’s agreement, describing the payout as a ‘life changing amount’.
It’s safe to say the team were excited about the win, so much so that they stormed their manager's post-match press conference.
Footage shows the moment they burst into the room while Sarina Wiegman discusses the tournament to sing 'It's Coming Home' in front of the media.
A seemingly stunned Wiegman is initially speechless but she soon starts laughing, even helping goalkeeper Mary Earps climb onto the table to bust a move or two.
The England squad won their nerve-wracking final with goals from Ella Toone and Chloe Kelly.
Kelly, who almost didn’t play in the women’s Euro 2022 final after battling a severe anterior cruciate ligament injury, was extremely emotional post-match.
She told The Guardian: “As a young girl watching women’s football and now this, wow, it’s unbelievable.
“Thank you to everyone who played part in my rehab, because I always believed I could be here, but to score the winner… wow.
“These girls are special, the manager is special and what a special group of staff. This is amazing.”
Wiegman also spoke to BBC Sport post-match, revealing how delighted she was while reminiscing about winning the trophy with Holland five years ago.
She said: "We won the cup. It is unbelievable. It is incredible.”
Daisy Phillipson