FIFA Boosts World Cup Funding

The world football body FIFA has decided to give more than $100 million in extra funding to teams մասնակցing in the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026, which will be held across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Each national team will now receive at least $12.5 million, after an increase of $2 million to help cover higher costs. Some teams had complained that expenses—especially travel, hotels, and taxes in the U.S.—were higher than expected and could lead to financial losses unless they advanced far in the tournament.

FIFA also raised support for preparation costs, increasing funding for training and pre-tournament expenses from $1.5 million to $2.5 million. On top of that, basic prize money has been increased, with a total prize pool now set at $655 million. The team that wins the tournament could earn up to $50 million.

Compared to the last World Cup in 2022, where Argentina took home $42 million for winning, this new funding shows how much the competition—and its costs—are growing.

FIFA already covers many major expenses, including flights, accommodation for up to 50 team members, and transport within host countries. Still, teams are responsible for things like insurance and extra hotel costs.

With the tournament expected to generate at least $11 billion in revenue, FIFA says the increased funding will ensure teams can focus on playing, not financial pressure.

Source: Newstimehub