FIFA announces record prize money for World Cup 2026, total budget set at 871 million dollars

Lahore (Sports Desk) The global football governing body FIFA has announced a historic increase in prize money for the World Cup 2026, setting the total budget at 871 million dollars, which is the largest amount in the tournament’s history. This decision was approved in the FIFA Council meeting held in Vancouver, however, the organization is also facing criticism over ticket prices and commercial partnerships. According to the new plan, significant financial incentives have been increased for participating teams in the tournament. Each team qualifying will initially receive 2.5 million dollars, while additional prize money will be awarded based on performance. The champion team will receive 53.5 million dollars, while the runner-up will get 36.5 million dollars. The third and fourth placed teams will receive 32.5 million and 30.5 million dollars respectively. Teams finishing from fifth to eighth position will receive 22.5 million dollars, while millions of dollars have also been allocated for teams reaching other stages. This time, 104 matches will be played in the World Cup, nearly double compared to 2022, making it the biggest tournament in football history.