The FIFA World Cup remains the biggest sporting spectacle on the planet, drawing participation from countries across every continent. The upcoming edition is set to make history not only for its expanded lineup of teams but also for its record-breaking financial scale.
In a major boost, FIFA has allocated a massive $871 million to the tournament, nearly double the previous edition’s prize pool, making it the most lucrative World Cup ever, according to media reports.
Total 48 teams will compete in World Cup
A total of 48 teams will compete in the 2026 World Cup, which will begin on June 11, 2026, and will be hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada. Argentina will defend its title.
This will be the largest World Cup ever in terms of the number of teams, compared to 32 teams in 2022. Teams from Jordan, Uzbekistan, Cape Verde, and Curaçao will participate in the tournament for the first time in its history.
Not only in terms of teams but also in prize money, this will be the biggest event ever. FIFA has allocated $871 million for the tournament, nearly double the amount of the previous event. Each team will receive $2.5 million for preparation and $10 million for qualifying. In 2022, teams received $1.5 million for preparation and $9 million for qualifying. This means each team will receive $12.5 million simply for qualifying, with additional amounts awarded based on performance.
The winner of the 2026 World Cup will receive $53.5 million, compared to $42 million awarded to Argentina in 2022. The runner-up will receive $36.5 million, the third-placed team will receive $32.5 million, and the fourth-placed team will receive $35 million.
Teams finishing between 5th and 8th place will each receive $22.5 million. Those ranked 9th to 16th will receive $18.5 million, while teams placed 17th to 32nd will get $14.5 million. Teams finishing between 33rd and 48th place will receive $12.5 million, as mentioned earlier. A total of 104 matches will be played in this tournament, compared to 64 matches in the 2022 World Cup.
Read more: FIFA apologises to Iran over Canada entry incident
