The winners of the 2026 FIFA World Cup will receive a remarkable $50 million in prize money, as world football’s governing body has unveiled a record financial package for the tournament. FIFA announced on Wednesday that the total prize fund for the expanded World Cup will be $655 million (€558.5 million), a significant increase of nearly 50 per cent compared to the $440 million distributed at the 2022 edition in Qatar.
The 2026 World Cup, set to take place in the United States, Mexico, and Canada from June 11 to July 19, will be historic in several ways. It will be the first time the tournament features 48 teams, up from the traditional 32, representing a 50 per cent expansion in participation. To support this larger format, FIFA has substantially
increased its overall financial contribution, now reaching a record $727 million.
Of this amount, $655 million will be designated as performance-based prize money for the 48 participating nations. The champions will receive $50 million, while the runners-up will take home $33 million. Teams finishing in third place will collect $29 million, with the losing semi-finalists earning $27 million. Nations eliminated in the group stage will still receive $9 million, and all participating teams are guaranteed an additional $1.5 million to cover preparation costs.
Why The Increase?
Reflecting on the scale of the investment, FIFA president Gianni Infantino stated, “The FIFA World Cup 2026 will also be groundbreaking in terms of its financial contribution to the global football community.” The increased prize pool highlights FIFA’s commitment to distributing more resources across the footballing pyramid while rewarding on-field performance.
For context, Argentina earned $42 million after Lionel Messi led them to World Cup victory in 2022, defeating France on penalties in a dramatic final. France, as runners-up, received $30 million. The revised payouts for 2026 represent a significant increase, ensuring teams are better compensated for their tournament performances.
Beyond the World Cup, FIFA’s Council also confirmed additional initiatives aimed at long-term development. Festival-style youth tournaments for under-15 players, open to all member associations, will begin in 2026, starting with a boys’ event followed by a girls’ competition in 2027. “In recent years, FIFA has stepped up its efforts to boost youth football,” Infantino said. “This is a natural next step.”
Additionally, the FIFA Council announced that the 2028 Women’s Club World Cup will be held from January 5 to January 30, further strengthening FIFA’s commitment to the growth of the women’s game alongside its flagship men’s tournament.
(With inputs from Agencies)
