FIFA has announced a significant increase in prize money for African national teams participating in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Each of the nine African representatives will receive $12.5 million, up from $9 million in 2022, according to official FIFA documents reviewed by Reuters.
The total prize fund for the tournament, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, has been set at $440 million. This represents a 20% increase from the $370 million allocated for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
The decision was confirmed during the FIFA Congress in May 2026, as part of broader efforts to support football development in Africa. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) welcomed the move, stating it would help federations invest in infrastructure and youth programs.
African teams have historically performed well in the World Cup, with Morocco reaching the semifinals in 2022. The increased prize money is seen as a boost for the continent's football ambitions.
