ZURICH: FIFA has announced a record financial contribution for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with prize money reaching historic levels. The winners will take home $50 million, marking a significant increase from the 2022 tournament.
The total prize fund for the 2026 FIFA World Cup will be $655 million (558.5 million euros). This represents almost a 50 percent rise from the $440 million distributed in Qatar in 2022. Officials say the increase reflects the growing commercial and global impact of the tournament.
Next year’s World Cup will be held in the United States, Mexico, and Canada from June 11 to July 19. For the first time, the tournament will feature 48 teams, up from 32 teams in 2022. This expansion allows more nations to participate on the world stage.
Prize money for different stages has also been adjusted. The runners-up will now receive $33 million, up from $30 million in 2022. Third-place finishers will collect $29 million, while the other semi-finalists will get $27 million each.
Teams eliminated during the group stage will receive $9 million. In addition, all 48 participating nations will be given $1.5 million to cover preparation costs. FIFA says this step is aimed at supporting teams’ logistical and training expenses.
During the previous World Cup, Argentina won $42 million after Lionel Messi led them to victory on penalties against France. France, as runners-up, received $30 million. The new prize structure reflects FIFA’s commitment to rewarding performance at all stages.
Experts say the larger prize pool for the 2026 FIFA World Cup will increase competition and motivate teams to perform at their best. With more teams participating, the tournament is expected to attract wider global interest and sponsorship.
FIFA also highlighted that the tournament’s expansion to 48 teams aims to make the event more inclusive. Fans around the world are expected to enjoy more matches, while emerging football nations will gain exposure on the global stage.
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The 2026 FIFA World Cup promises to be the most lucrative and widely watched in history. FIFA officials say the combination of increased prize money and expanded participation will create a historic and highly competitive tournament.
