Conmebol disclosed the earnings of teams in the 2025 Copa Sudamericana, with Universidad de Chile ranking among the top earners after reaching the semifinals. The Chilean club received 2.6 million dollars, though it trailed champion Lanús. Palestino also appears in the rankings with nearly 2 million for its playoff run.
The 2025 Copa Sudamericana marked a notable step forward for South American football, with increased revenues for participating clubs. According to Conmebol's report, Universidad de Chile, known as La U, earned 2,600,000 dollars for its run to the semifinals, where it was ousted by Lanús. This amount highlights the student team's performance in the continental tournament.
Argentine champion Lanús secured the highest payout at 9,845,000 dollars, emphasizing the rewards for winning the title. Another Chilean side, Palestino, which reached the playoff round, received 1,995,000 dollars, placing it in the overall rankings.
Both Chilean clubs look ahead. Palestino is already qualified for the 2026 Copa Sudamericana. Meanwhile, La U aims for a spot in the Copa Libertadores via the Chile 2 or Chile 3 berth, with mathematical chances still alive in the domestic league.
Former coach Gustavo Álvarez addressed the need to match sporting achievements with financial gains: “Los grandes beneficios económicos, los números azules, emparejados con los logros deportivos, si no van de la mano, la diferencia la paga el entrenador, los jugadores y lo sufre el hincha”.
La U player Marcelo Díaz stressed current goals: “Nosotros vamos a ir a Iquique a ganar, necesitamos cerrar el año con una victoria. No dependemos de nosotros (para ir a la Copa Libertadores). Lo que sí nos corresponde es ganar y jugar muy serios”.