In the latest Play by Play, Boardroom breaks down the record prize pool, payouts by finish, and why fans are paying more than ever.
Countries competing in the 2026 FIFA World Cup will have an extra incentive to lift the trophy this summer. In December, FIFA announced the approval of a record $727 million payout for the tournament, which for the first time will feature 48 teams.
The massive prize package includes a total of $655 million being distributed to the federations based on their success in the tournament, ranging from $9 million for nations eliminated at the group stage to $33 million for the losing finalists and an impressive $50 million to the eventual champions. For context, Argentina received $42 million after winning their third World Cup in 2022, defeating then-reigning champions France in a penalty shootout in Qatar. That’s a $4 million increase from the $38 million Les Bleus were awarded after winning the 2018 title.
Held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, with the final scheduled for July 19 at MetLife Stadium, ahead is the full payout:
- Champions: $50 million
- Runners-up: $33 million
- 3rd place: $29 million
- 4th place: $27 million
- 5th-8th place: $19 million
- 9th-16th place: $15 million
- 17th- 32nd place: $11 million
- 33rd-48th place: $9 million
Add in an additional $1.5 million per team for preparation, and each country is guaranteed at least $10.5 million just for qualifying. Now, if you recall, the expanded Club World Cup was held last summer in the United States, and 32 clubs competed for $1 billion in prize money. Also at MetLife, Chelsea won the title and were awarded $125 million. If you’re wondering why there’s such a discrepancy between the two prize packages, FIFA argues the difference comes down to costs, as clubs pay massive wages year-round, while national teams don’t.
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The World Cup prize money is bigger than ever, but unfortunately, so are ticket prices. Fans waiting their entire lives to watch their favorite team compete on American soil are paying 174% more than expected, with opening games across the 16 host cities costing up to $1,728 instead of the $569 projected back in 2018.
Safe to say, the money in football is bigger than ever. Whether you’re a club, a country, or a fan looking to check off a bucket list moment, everyone is paying the price for the game’s growth.
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