Slovak Football Federation warns of €4 million funding halt by Ministry

The Slovak Ministry of Tourism and Sport and the chief sports controller are reportedly considering a temporary suspension of the third tranche of state support for football, amounting to €4,072,738. The payment, due by 31 July 2026 under a contract with the Slovak Football Federation (SFZ), is earmarked for youth sport (€814,547.50), talent development (€814,547.50), the national team (€1,018,184.50), federation administration (€610,910.75) and other football activities (€814,547.75).

SFZ says a delay would jeopardise clubs, youth programmes, regional associations and the national squads, affecting hundreds of clubs and thousands of children. The federation recalled a similar suspension earlier this year that was lifted after conditions were met, and it urged authorities not to repeat the situation, describing it as "a fundamental interference in the functioning of football across Slovakia."