FIFA has announced a 50 percent increase in prize money for the 2026 World Cup, with winners set to receive $50 million. The total financial distribution approved by the FIFA Council stands at $727 million, including $655 million in performance-based prizes for the 48 participating teams. Each qualified nation is guaranteed at least $10.5 million, comprising $9 million for group stage exits plus $1.5 million in preparation costs.
The FIFA Council approved the record prize fund during a meeting in Doha on December 17, 2025, marking a significant boost from the $440 million distributed at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. This expansion reflects FIFA's projected revenues of $13 billion for the 2023-2026 cycle, driven by the tournament's growth to 48 teams and enhanced commercial deals.
Under the new structure, the champions will earn $50 million, up from $42 million in 2022, while runners-up receive $33 million. Third and fourth places are awarded $29 million and $27 million, respectively. Teams reaching the quarterfinals get $19 million, round of 16 participants $15 million, and round of 32 teams $11 million. Those eliminated in the group stage secure $9 million, ensuring a minimum payout when combined with preparation funds.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino described the initiative as groundbreaking, stating it would provide substantial financial contribution to the global football community. The announcement comes amid backlash over high ticket prices for the tournament, hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. In response, FIFA introduced limited $60 tickets for select allocations following fan complaints.
Tom Greatrex, chair of the Football Supporters' Association, highlighted the fund's size as evidence of available resources, urging FIFA to further reduce ticket costs to preserve the event's accessibility. The prizes aim to support federations, including investments in youth development and infrastructure, benefiting nations like Colombia, which has already qualified.
