The 2026 World Cup will see the winning team awarded $51 million, a substantial increase from previous tournaments, with the total prize pool reaching $871 million for 48 teams.
This expansion follows lobbying from European federations, which argued that the previous prize structure did not adequately compensate teams, especially in light of the costs associated with hosting the tournament across three countries. Each participating team will receive at least $12.5 million, which includes $10 million for qualifying and $2.5 million for training expenses.
The prize money increases based on how far teams advance, with the runner-up receiving $34 million and third place earning $30 million. FIFA also covers travel and accommodation costs for team delegations, further alleviating financial burdens. The prize money is distributed to national federations, which then decide how to allocate it among players and staff.
This financial structure highlights the increasing commercialization of soccer and the competitive pressures on national teams to perform well in the tournament