On April 29, 2026, FIFA announced a 15% increase in prize money for the 48 teams participating in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, raising the total prize pool to $440 million. This marks a significant boost from the $380 million awarded in 2022, reflecting the expanded tournament format.
The decision was confirmed during a FIFA Council meeting, with President Gianni Infantino stating that the increase aims to support the development of football globally. The 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, will feature 48 teams for the first time, up from 32 in previous editions.
Each participating team is guaranteed a minimum of $9 million, with the eventual champion set to receive $42 million. The remaining funds are distributed based on performance, including group stage exits and knockout round advancements. FIFA emphasized that the prize money is sourced from tournament revenues, including broadcasting rights and sponsorships.
The 15% increase aligns with FIFA's broader strategy to incentivize competitive play and ensure financial fairness across all confederations. The 2026 World Cup is scheduled to take place from June 11 to July 19, 2026, across 16 host cities.
