2026 World Cup: FIFA Sets Record as Winners to Cart Home $50m Prize Money
FIFA has approved a landmark financial package for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with the eventual champions set to earn 50 million dollars from a record total prize pool of 727 million dollars.
The decision, endorsed by the FIFA Council, represents a 50 percent increase in prize money compared to the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. Out of the total amount, 655 million dollars will be distributed as performance based prize money to participating teams.
The 2026 tournament will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico and will mark the first World Cup to feature 48 teams. FIFA said the expanded prize structure reflects its commitment to ensuring that the financial benefits of the competition reach all participating nations.
Under the approved breakdown, the champions will receive 50 million dollars, while the runners up will earn 33 million dollars. The third placed team will pocket 29 million dollars and the fourth placed side will collect 27 million dollars.
Countries that reach the quarter final stage will receive 19 million dollars, while teams eliminated in the round of 16 will earn 15 million dollars. Those exiting in the round of 32 will get 11 million dollars, while group stage exits are guaranteed 9 million dollars.
Beyond match performance rewards, FIFA will also provide 1.5 million dollars to each qualified team to support preparation and logistics. This means every participating nation will earn a minimum of 10.5 million dollars, even if eliminated early.
FIFA said the enhanced financial commitment is aimed at strengthening football development globally and supporting smaller member associations as the World Cup expands to a new era.
