Decision to be taken at Fifa Council meeting in Vancouver on 28 April
Fifa is set to increase prize money for this summer’s World Cup following concerns from national associations about rising costs of participating in the tournament.
The world football governing body had already approved a record prize fund of $727m to be shared among the 48 participating teams, including $50m for the winners. However, there were concerns that the higher costs of staging and participating in the expanded tournament could offset those earnings.
Earlier this year, several European federations warned that participating in the 2026 World Cup could lead to financial losses, with expenses in North America expected to be significantly higher than at the 2022 event in Qatar.
Issues raised included travel, logistics and uncertainty around taxation, particularly in the US where rules vary by state.
Fifa has since held discussions with associations worldwide and is now preparing an improved financial package. A decision is expected to be taken at a Fifa Council meeting in Vancouver on 28 April.
A Fifa spokesperson said: “Ahead of a Fifa Council meeting in Vancouver, Canada, on 28 April 2026, Fifa can confirm it is in discussions with associations around the world to increase available revenues.
“This includes a proposed increase of financial contributions to all qualified teams for the Fifa World Cup 2026 and of development funding available to all 211 member associations.
“The Fifa World Cup 2026 will be groundbreaking in terms of its financial contribution to the global football community and Fifa is proud to be in its strongest ever financial position to benefit the global game through its Fifa Forward programme.
“Subject to discussions, further details will be provided in due course.”
