World Cup 2026: a record $727 million prize pool

FIFA has formalized a record purse for the 2026 World Cup, with a total amount reaching $727 million. A historic package, befitting the first edition organized with 48 participating nations. Of that total, $655 million will be directly redistributed to the qualified teams. The future world champion will pocket $50 million, an unprecedented figure in the competition’s history. The unlucky finalist will leave with $33 million, while the teams finishing third and fourth will receive $29 million and $27 million respectively.

Teams knocked out on the doorstep of the semi-finals, finishing between fifth and eighth place, will each receive $19 million. Teams eliminated in the round of 16 will get $15 million, while those knocked out in the group stage will still benefit from $9 million.

Furthermore, FIFA specified that each qualified nation will receive an additional allocation of $1.5 million intended to cover preparation and logistics costs. A measure aimed at supporting federations in a larger tournament, longer and more demanding than ever.