FIFA Confirms $50 Million Prize For 2026 World Cup Winners

FIFA has confirmed that the champions of the 2026 World Cup will pocket $50 million, as part of a record-breaking $655 million prize fund for the tournament. The figure represents an almost 50 per cent rise from the $440 million shared among teams at the 2022 edition in Qatar.

The next World Cup will run from June 11 to July 19, 2026, and will be jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada. It will also mark a historic expansion, with 48 teams competing instead of the traditional 32.

At the last World Cup, Argentina earned $42 million after Lionel Messi inspired them to a dramatic penalty shootout win over France, who took home $30 million as runners-up. In 2026, however, the finalists who fall short will receive $33 million, while the third-placed team will earn $29 million and the losing semi-finalists $27 million.

Countries knocked out at the group stage will each collect $9 million, and every participating nation will be given an extra $1.5 million to support their preparation ahead of the competition.

According to FIFA, the expanded format is designed to deliver the biggest and most lucrative World Cup ever, reflecting both the increased number of teams and the sport’s growing global appeal.