FIFA is reportedly preparing to increase both prize money for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, scheduled to take place in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Record Prize Pool Set for Increase
In December, FIFA announced a record prize money of $727 million, with each team guaranteed at least $10.5 million and the winners set to receive $50 million. However, ongoing discussions with national associations could see those figures rise further.
Read Also: 2026 World Cup: Winners to pocket $50m as FIFA targets $13bn revenue
Decision Timeline
The revised financial package is expected to be finalised at a FIFA Council meeting in Vancouver on April 28, ahead of the FIFA Congress scheduled two days later.
UEFA Push and Cost Concerns
UEFA has been among the strongest voices pushing for increased payments, citing the high costs of travel, logistics and taxation associated with hosting the tournament across North America.
Several national federations have also raised concerns about the financial burden of competing in the expanded 48-team format.
FIFA’s Financial Position
FIFA confirmed it has been engaging with associations worldwide to boost financial contributions for qualified teams, while also increasing development funding distributed to all 211 member federations through its FIFA Forward programme.
“The FIFA World Cup 2026 will be groundbreaking in terms of its financial contribution to the global football community,” a FIFA spokesperson said, adding that the organisation is in its “strongest ever financial position” to support the global game.
Revenue Outlook and Clarification
While some reports suggested the move was influenced by UEFA lobbying, FIFA sources insist the decision is based on internal revenue projections, with total income from the tournament expected to exceed $11 billion.
Cost-Cutting Measures Impact Hosts
Despite its financial strength, FIFA has implemented cost-cutting measures, including trimming over $100 million from its operating budget at its Miami headquarters.
These reductions have already impacted host city activities, with the cancellation of the Fan Fest in New Jersey and scaled-back programmes in Seattle. Only Philadelphia and Houston are expected to deliver the full 39-day festival initially planned.
Final details of the revised prize structure are expected to be confirmed following the upcoming Council and Congress meetings.
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