FIFA has announced a significant increase in payments for national teams participating in the 2026 World Cup.
Operative Information Center-OMM reports, citing information from The Guardian, that the decision was made following pressure from national football associations regarding the high costs associated with tournament preparations.
In December 2025, the FIFA Council approved a record-breaking total prize fund of $727 million. This allocation ensures that each of the 48 participating teams will receive a minimum of $10.5 million. Several federations had previously expressed concerns that high travel, accommodation, and tax expenses in the United States, Canada, and Mexico could significantly diminish their net earnings. Consequently, FIFA is scheduled to discuss additional financing options during a council meeting in Vancouver on April 28, considering both direct payment increases and the expansion of development programs for its 211 member federations.
The 2026 World Cup will be a landmark event, marking the first time the tournament is hosted by three nations—the United States, Canada, and Mexico—and the first to feature an expanded roster of 48 teams. The tournament is set to take place from June 11 to July 19, 2026. This expansion reflects FIFA's commitment to growing the sport globally, occurring during the term of US President Donald Trump, as the region prepares for unprecedented international viewership and infrastructure demands.
