World soccer’s governing body announced Tuesday it will distribute nearly $900 million to teams competing in the 2026 World Cup, marking a significant boost in financial support for participating nations.
During a FIFA Council meeting held in Vancouver before the organization’s 76th Congress, officials approved a 15% bump in resources that will be shared among all 48 member associations taking part in next year’s expanded tournament across the United States, Canada and Mexico.
The enhanced financial package totals $871 million, with each qualifying team now set to receive $2.5 million in preparation funds, an increase from the previous $1.5 million allocation.
Teams will also see their qualification bonuses grow from $9 million to $10 million, while FIFA announced additional support including subsidized delegation expenses and expanded ticket allocations worth more than $16 million combined.
“FIFA is proud to be in its most solid financial position ever, enabling us to help all our Member Associations in an unprecedented way,” FIFA president Gianni Infantino said.
“This is one more example of how FIFA’s resources are reinvested back into the game.”
The financial boost addresses concerns raised by some participating countries about the challenges of competing in a tournament spanning North America, where teams face extensive travel distances, varying tax systems and complex logistical demands.
European soccer’s governing body UEFA had conveyed worries from several member nations that teams might struggle financially unless they advance far into the competition.
The upcoming tournament represents a historic milestone as the first men’s World Cup to include 48 teams, expanding from the traditional 32-team format, and will take place across three North American countries.
FIFA’s increased payouts reflect expectations for the most commercially successful World Cup ever, with additional teams creating more matches and expanded opportunities for ticket sales, sponsorship deals and broadcasting revenue.
