US$100 million boost! FIFA boosts World Cup prize money as team costs soar

New Delhi: In a major financial relief to participating countries, FIFA has approved over $100 million in additional funding for teams ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, citing the rising costs of hosting the global event in North America.The decision was taken at a FIFA Council meeting in Vancouver, one of the host cities for the expanded 48-team World Cup, which will be hosted jointly by the United States, Canada and Mexico on June 11.Bigger spending to ease financial pressureFIFA confirmed that the minimum guarantee provided to each of the 48 participating confederations will be increased to $12.5 million, an increase of $2 million. In addition, each team’s base bonus has been increased by $1 million to $10 million.Support for race preparations has also increased significantly, with funding increasing from $1.5 million to $2.5 million. The global agency will allocate a further $16 million in subsidies to help cover costs associated with the authorization.Previously, some football federations, especially UEFA, were concerned that the early financial model could lead to losses unless teams progressed further into the knockout stages.Costs rising across North AmericaHosting the tournament in three countries presents unique logistical and financial challenges. For example, teams playing in the United States will face certain tax obligations that do not apply in Canada or Mexico.Travel and accommodation costs have also surged, with teams needing to manage additional expenses such as insurance, incidental hotel costs and delegations beyond the core 50 members funded by FIFA.Record revenue, record prize poolFIFA expects revenue from the 2026 World Cup to be at least $11 billion, making it the most profitable World Cup ever. The total prize money announced earlier was US$655 million, with the final winner receiving US$50 million, a significant increase from the US$42 million the Argentina national football team will receive in 2022 if they win the championship.What FIFA covers and what it doesn’tIn accordance with tournament regulations, FIFA has paid for business class return air tickets, accommodation costs for the 50-member delegation and domestic travel expenses, including dedicated vehicles and logistical support.However, the federation remains responsible for insurance, additional personnel costs and miscellaneous expenses – factors that have contributed to the push for increased financial support.