Guo Guangchang Offers $11.6M Incentive for China’s U23 Win Over Vietnam
China’s U23 football team stands on the brink of a historic opportunity. A significant incentive of 81 million yuan (approximately $11.6 million) awaits them if they triumph over Vietnam in the semi-finals of the 2026 U23 Asian Cup.
Guo Guangchang’s Generous Offer
This astonishing bonus has been linked to billionaire Guo Guangchang, a prominent figure in Chinese business and sports. The 58-year-old is the chairman and co-founder of Fosun International, a diversified private conglomerate with ventures in pharmaceuticals, insurance, tourism, and mining.
According to Forbes, Guo boasts a net worth of $2.3 billion as of 2026. He has made headlines in the sports arena previously, notably for acquiring the English football club Wolverhampton Wanderers in 2016. Under his ownership, the club achieved remarkable success, ascending from the Championship to the Premier League in 2018.
Boosting Team Morale
Reports from major Chinese outlets, including Sina and 163, indicate that this financial incentive is aimed at motivating the U23 team prior to their crucial match against Vietnam. Although Fosun has not released an official statement, sources claim that plans for the bonus have been finalized. This move is considered unprecedented in the realm of youth football.
- Bonus amount: 81 million yuan (US$11.6 million)
- Benefactor: Guo Guangchang
- Team: China U23 Football Team
- Opponent: Vietnam U23 Football Team
- Date and time of match: Tuesday at 10:30 p.m. (Hanoi time)
If the U23 team succeeds, the incentive would rival bonuses typically given by national federations for major senior tournaments like the Euros or the World Cup.
Looking Ahead
As the semi-final approaches, all eyes will be on the match and whether this rewarding incentive can galvanize the team. The game will be broadcast live by VnExpress International.
