The champion of the 2026 World Cup is set to receive a historic prize of $50 million US, while all 48 participating teams will take home a minimum of $10.5 million each. This amount marks an increase from previous tournaments, with the total prize fund for the event held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico totaling $655 million, a 50 percent rise from the previous edition in Qatar.
Canada, despite not advancing past the group stage, received $9 million in prize money in the 2022 World Cup. This funding is significant for Canada Soccer, which reported revenue of $37.5 million Cdn in 2024. As a host nation, Canada will also benefit from a legacy fund from the tournament, part of which will be used to establish a national training center.
During the FIFA Council meeting preceding the FIFA Intercontinental Cup final in Doha, Qatar, it was announced that a record $727 million US will be distributed throughout the expanded 104-game event. Of this amount, $655 million will be distributed as prize money among the participating teams, with the runner-up earning $33 million, the third-place team receiving $29 million, and the fourth-place team securing $27 million. Prize money decreases to $9 million for teams finishing 33rd to 48th.
Moreover, each qualifying team will receive $1.5 million to cover preparation expenses. The announcement follows criticism of FIFA for high ticket prices at the World Cup co-hosted by Canada, the U.S., and Mexico. FIFA President Gianni Infantino emphasized the significant financial impact the World Cup will have on global football.
In addition to the men’s World Cup, FIFA allocated $152 million to the 2023 Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand, a substantial increase from previous tournaments. The projected revenue for FIFA from 2023-26 is estimated to reach a record $13 billion, with a significant portion reinvested into the 211 member associations worldwide, as highlighted by FIFA vice-president Victor Montagliani.
