Fifa has announced a significant 50% increase in the prize money it will award to participating teams at next year’s World Cup, which will take place across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. This notable financial enhancement comes in the wake of mounting criticism regarding the pricing of tickets for the tournament, with many fans expressing their concerns over affordability and access.
The payout, which is a part of a record financial distribution totaling $727 million (£544.8 million), has been approved by the governing body’s council as a result of the event’s anticipated success. This substantial investment illustrates Fifa’s commitment to ensuring that the tournament not only rewards competing nations but also positively impacts the global football community.
During this World Cup, the winning team stands to receive a whopping $50 million (£37.4 million), while the runners-up will be awarded $33 million (£24.7 million). Moreover, teams that do not advance past the group stage will still be compensated, receiving $9 million (£6.7 million). In addition to these prize amounts, each qualified team will also receive $1.5 million (£1.1 million) to help cover their preparation costs. Consequently, all participating member associations are assured of at least $10.5 million (£7.8 million), which reflects Fifa’s acknowledgment of the financial resources required for teams to compete at such a high level.
Fifa president Gianni Infantino expressed that these payments represent a groundbreaking step in terms of financial contributions to the global football community, signaling a progressive approach to supporting teams and the sport as a whole. This announcement follows closely on the heels of Fifa’s decision to introduce a limited number of £45 tickets for all 104 matches, a move made in response to significant public outcry over the high ticket prices traditionally associated with World Cup events.
Tom Greatrex, chair of the Football Supporters’ Association, commented on the record prize fund, emphasizing that the increased financial rewards demonstrate there is indeed no shortage of funds linked to the World Cup. However, he also cautioned that it is still not too late for Fifa to rectify any potential missteps that may threaten the tournament’s unique charm and spirit. Greatrex urged Fifa to take immediate action to ensure that the essence of the World Cup is preserved for fans and future generations.
The UK’s Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer, welcomed the partial adjustments made by Fifa, reiterating the need for the organization to do even more in order to make tickets more affordable for ordinary fans. He called on Fifa to prioritize inclusivity and accessibility.
In a further commitment to social responsibility, Fifa’s council has approved the establishment of a post-conflict recovery fund, aligning with its mission to promote football’s unifying values. This initiative follows a declaration made by President Infantino at the Sharm El-Sheikh Summit for Peace in October 2025, where he expressed Fifa’s intention to create a support mechanism for regions that have endured conflict. This financial instrument, which will welcome third-party contributions and be subject to strict oversight, aims to complement existing efforts under the Fifa Forward Programme and other initiatives, showcasing Fifa’s dedication to using football as a means of fostering global unity and healing in challenging times.
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