FIFA Sets Record $50M Prize for 2026 World Cup Champion

BAGHDAD, Iraq — FIFA announced the prize structure for the 2026 World Cup, setting the champion's reward at $50 million in what the governing body described as the largest prize package in tournament history. The expanded tournament, co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, will feature 48 national teams competing across 104 matches. The runner-up will receive $33 million, while the third and fourth-place finishers will earn $29 million and $27 million respectively. Teams eliminated in the round of 16 will collect $15 million, those exiting in the round of 32 will receive $11 million and group-stage departures will be awarded $9 million. In addition to prize money, each participating team will receive a $10 million participation fee and $2.5 million in preparation support, bringing the minimum guaranteed earnings for any team to $12.5 million. FIFA's total prize distribution will reach $871 million, with projected tournament revenue exceeding $13 billion.