Barrow has sparked controversy by offering their players a larger bonus for losing their upcoming Carabao Cup tie against Chelsea than for winning it. The League Two side faces the Premier League giants on September 24.
According to documents seen by Telegraph Sport, Barrow players will receive £1,000 each if they lose the third-round match at Stamford Bridge. However, if they pull off an upset victory, their bonus will be just £250.
This unusual bonus structure raises serious concerns about the integrity of the League Cup, with Barrow seemingly providing financial incentives for underperformance. The club has not issued an official statement but sources have claimed that the bonus sheet contains errors, which will be corrected.
The English Football League (EFL) also declined to comment on the matter but reportedly views Barrow’s bonus system as highly problematic. While the scheme does not technically breach any regulations, the EFL has requested that the club provide an explanation. This marks the first instance where the league has encountered a team offering higher bonuses for losing rather than winning.
Barrow Commits to Correcting Bonus Scheme
Following contact from Telegraph Sport, Barrow has spoken with the EFL, assuring them that the bonus structure will be revised. All clubs are required to agree on their bonus arrangements with players at the start of each season and submit these details to the EFL.
The current bonus scheme outlines payments for Barrow players based on their progress in cup competitions this season. However, several inconsistencies appear in the League Cup schedule.
Barrow players stand to earn £250 per victory from rounds one to five of the competition. But from the third round, losing to a Premier League club would net each player £1,000. Even a defeat against a Championship team in the third round would have earned them £750.
Should Barrow, against all odds, win the entire Carabao Cup, their players would receive a total bonus of only £1,000.
FA Cup Bonus Plan Offers More Consistency
Barrow’s FA Cup bonus structure, in contrast, seems more logical. In the early rounds, players can earn win bonuses ranging from £400 to £800. Starting from the third round, these bonuses increase significantly to £2,625 per player. A loss to a Premier League club in the third round would still provide a £1,000 payout, while losing to a Championship side would be worth £750.
Barrow’s controversial bonus plan has certainly raised eyebrows and forced the club to review its policy. All eyes will now be on their match against Chelsea to see if the financial incentives affect their performance.
