The International Football Federation (FIFA) has increased the prize pool for the 2026 World Cup by 15%, bringing it to $871 million, according to the organization's website.
The decision was made at a FIFA council meeting in Vancouver, Canada, and is based on the "commercial success of the flagship men's tournament."
According to the updated financial plan, each of the 48 participating teams will receive a minimum of $12.5 million instead of the previously announced $10.5 million. The amount for team preparation has increased from $1.5 million to $2.5 million, and the qualification fee has risen from $9 million to $10 million. FIFA has also allocated subsidies to cover delegation expenses and increase ticket quotas for teams, totaling more than $16 million.
The remaining portion of the revenue will continue to be redistributed in favor of world football through the 211 FIFA member associations. The revision of the prize money was a response to concerns from national associations that high logistics and tax costs, especially in the USA, could lead to financial losses even with successful performances in the tournament. As previously reported by the media, many European federations expressed concern that participation in the World Cup could be unprofitable.
The 2026 World Cup will take place with 48 teams across three countries - the USA, Canada, and Mexico - from June 11 to July 19.
