The FIFA World Cup 2026 is set to be a historic tournament, not only for its expanded format but also for the substantial financial rewards on offer. FIFA has announced a 50% increase in prize money, with the winner set to receive a record $50 million. This significant increase is part of a total financial contribution of $727 million to be shared among member nations.
The FIFA Council, convened in Doha, Qatar, approved this unprecedented financial package. Gianni Infantino, FIFA President, emphasized the groundbreaking nature of the 2026 World Cup in terms of its financial contribution to the global football community.
The total prize money pool for the 48 participating nations will be $655 million. The runner-up will receive $33 million, while the teams finishing in third and fourth place will be awarded $29 million and $27 million, respectively. Teams that do not advance past the group stage (finishing 33rd to 48th) will each receive $9 million. Additionally, each qualified nation will receive $1.5 million to cover preparation costs. This ensures that every participating team will receive a minimum of $10.5 million.
This marks a considerable increase from the previous tournament in Qatar in 2022, where Argentina received $42 million for winning the World Cup out of a $440 million prize pool. The runner-up, France, received $30 million. The substantial increase in prize money reflects the expansion of the tournament from 32 to 48 teams. FIFA anticipates record revenues over the four-year cycle ending with the 2026 World Cup, projecting $13 billion, a significant increase from the $7.5 billion generated in the 2018-2022 cycle.
The decision to increase the prize money comes after public criticism regarding ticket prices for the 2026 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada. In response, FIFA has announced a limited number of discounted tickets for fans of participating countries.
In addition to the increased prize money, FIFA is investing in youth football, confirming festival-style youth tournaments for under-15s, starting with a boys' event in 2026 and a girls' event in 2027. FIFA has also confirmed that the 2028 Women's Club World Cup will be held from January 5 to January 30.
