2026 FIFA World Cup (Getty Images) NEW DELHI: In a major financial relief for participating countries, FIFA has approved more than $100 million in additional funding for teams ahead of the 2026 World Cup, due to rising costs of hosting the global showpiece in North America.The decision was taken at a FIFA Council meeting in Vancouver, one of the host cities for the expanded 48-team tournament, which will be held jointly in the United States, Canada and Mexico starting June 11.
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Soccer politics heat up as Italy rejects Trump envoy’s plan to keep Iran out of World CupHigher payouts to ease the financial burdenFIFA has confirmed that the minimum guaranteed payment to each of the 48 participating federations will rise to $12.5 million – an increase of $2 million. In addition, base salaries increased by $1 million to $10 million per team.Support for pre-tournament preparation has also been significantly boosted, with funding increasing from $1.5 million to $2.5 million. The global body will also set aside $16 million in grants to cover delegation-related expenses.The move comes after several federations, particularly from Europe, expressed concerns that the former financial model could lead to losses if teams do not advance deep into the knockout stages.Rising costs across North AmericaHosting the tournament in three countries presented 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 also increased, with teams having to manage additional expenses such as insurance, ancillary hotel fees and expanded delegations beyond the 50 FIFA-funded core members.Record revenues, record prize poolFIFA expects to generate at least $11 billion in revenue from the 2026 edition, making it the most lucrative World Cup ever. The total prize pool, which was previously announced at $655 million, will bring $50 million to the eventual champions, a significant jump from the $42 million the Argentine national soccer team received after their triumph in 2022.What FIFA covers – and what it doesn’tUnder tournament rules, FIFA already pays for return business class flights, accommodation for the 50-member delegation and domestic travel, including dedicated vehicles and logistical support.However, the federations remain responsible for insurance, additional personnel costs and various ancillary expenses – factors that have created pressure to increase financial support.
