FIFA Raises 2026 World Cup Prize Money to $871 Million to Ease Teams' Burden

The Federation Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) has announced an increase in the total prize money for the 2026 World Cup to around $871 million, up from the previously set figure of $727 million, a move aimed at offsetting the rising costs borne by participating national teams.

The decision came after a meeting of the FIFA Council, ahead of the General Assembly held in Vancouver, where several members expressed concerns over rising travel expenses, taxes and operating costs that could weigh heavily on national associations.

FIFA decided to raise the "preparation costs" grant for each qualified team from $1.5 million to $2.5 million, in addition to increasing the qualification bonus from $9 million to $10 million, while allocating extra support for delegation expenses and teams' tickets.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino affirmed that the global football body is enjoying the best financial position in its history, noting that this move reflects FIFA's commitment to reinvesting its resources in developing football worldwide.

The upcoming edition of the World Cup, to be held in the United States, Canada and Mexico, is expected to generate record revenues of up to $13 billion, especially as it will be the largest in the tournament's history, featuring 48 teams for the first time.

This increase comes amid growing criticism of FIFA over the surge in ticket prices and transport costs, particularly within the American host cities during the tournament.