FIFA announced they will give away $655 million in prize money for the next World Cup. This is much more than the last tournament. All 48 teams will get a large payment, even if they lose early. This news comes while people are complaining about high ticket prices.
Record-Breaking Payouts for Winners
The 2026 winner will get $50 million, which is more than the $42 million Argentina won in 2022. The second-place team will receive $33 million, up from the $30 million France got last time. Third-place finishers earn $29 million, while the fourth-place team receives $27 million.
Every Participant Receives Guaranteed Money
Perhaps most significant is the financial safety net for all participants. Each of the 48 teams receives a baseline payment of $10.5 million, regardless of performance. This breaks down into two components:
- $9 million for competing in the group stage
- $1.5 million designated for preparation costs
FIFA describes the preparation funds as covering expenses teams incur before arriving at the tournament. Teams that lose early will still get nearly $11 million. This money can help build fields and train young players.
Expanded Tournament Means Bigger Budget
The total prize fund of $655 million represents a 49% increase over World Cup 2022’s $440 million pot. This expansion reflects the tournament’s growth from 32 to 48 teams, creating 16 additional participating nations that require compensation.
The increased financial commitment demonstrates FIFA’s revenue growth but also arrives amid intense scrutiny over tournament accessibility.
Ticket Pricing Controversy Continues
FIFA is announcing these prizes while people are angry about high ticket costs. Many fans feel the tickets are too expensive for the average person to afford.
Fan groups worldwide say the prices are unfair. They argue that the World Cup should be for all fans to enjoy, not just a luxury for the rich.
Some fans, including those from England, are threatening to stay home if prices don’t change. This could lead to empty seats at the games, even though soccer is popular around the world.
The backlash centers on a fundamental principle: football has traditionally been a working-class sport with deep community roots. Many feel that expensive tickets exclude the real fans who make soccer culture special.
FIFA’s Response to Public Outcry
FIFA said they will offer some cheap tickets for $60 for every match. However, there are very few of these available and they have strict rules, so many people think this isn’t enough to fix the problem.
There is a big contradiction in the money.
FIFA is giving teams $655 million, but fans are angry about high ticket prices. As the ticket lottery starts in January, the conflict between making money and keeping soccer affordable is growing. This makes people worry about the future of the sport.
