FIFA UNVEILS RECORD $727 MILLION PRIZE POOL FOR 2026 WORLD CUP

By: Gyang Dakwo

FIFA has confirmed that the total prize money for the 2026 World Cup will be 727 million dollars, making it the most lucrative tournament in the history of the competition.

The world football body said the 48 nations that will take part in the expanded tournament will share 655 million dollars from the overall prize pool, and this marks a major increase from previous editions.

The country that emerges as champions will go home with 50 million dollars, which is the biggest payout ever awarded to a World Cup winner. The losing finalists will also earn a substantial reward of 33 million dollars, while the teams that finish third and fourth will receive 29 million dollars and 27 million dollars respectively.

FIFA also confirmed that teams placed between fifth and eighth will be paid 19 million dollars each, and this ensures that strong performances deep into the tournament are well rewarded.

Countries that are knocked out at the round of 16 stage will earn 15 million dollars, while those that fail to progress beyond the group stage will still receive 9 million dollars for their efforts.

In addition, every team that qualifies for the tournament will be reimbursed 1.5 million dollars to help cover the cost of preparation, and this is aimed at easing the financial burden on participating football associations.

The 2026 World Cup will be the first to feature 48 teams, and with the record prize money on offer, the tournament is expected to be more competitive and financially rewarding than ever before.