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FIFA are preparing to hand competing nations a financial boost at the 2026 World Cup this summer.
And while several countries are set to benefit, the same can’t be said for supporters attending the tournament.
FIFA set to increase 2026 World Cup prize and participation money
FIFA are in talks to increase prize money and participation payments for all 48 teams at the 2026 World Cup, with a final decision expected at an upcoming council meeting, according to The Athletic.
The current prize pot already stands at a record $727 million (£536 million), with each nation guaranteed at least $10.5 million (£7.75 million) and the winners set to receive $50m (£37 million) – figures that could now rise even further.
The increase comes off the back of projected revenues exceeding $11 billion (£8 billion) for the tournament across the United States, Canada and Mexico, underlining just how lucrative the expanded competition has become.
However, the financial boost for federations comes at a time when concerns continue to grow over the rising cost of attending the tournament for fans.
/https%3A%2F%2Fmedia.footballgroundguide.com%2Fmain%2F2026%2F04%2Fimago1075150971.jpg "FIFA set to make huge increase to 2026 World Cup prize money as fans continue to get fleeced by prices 1")
FGG says: More money for teams at the 2026 World Cup, but what about the fans?
This is where the optics start to look a bit uncomfortable.
FIFA are clearly generating huge revenues – enough to increase prize money yet again – but supporters are facing some of the highest costs ever seen at a World Cup.
We’ve already seen several examples, including train fares to games at MetLife Stadium potentially exceeding $100 (£75) for a short journey, ticket prices for key matches running into the thousands, and even resale listings for the final reaching eye-watering levels.
Compare that to recent tournaments where public transport was free for ticket holders, and it’s easy to see why frustration is building.
FIFA may argue that the money is being reinvested into the game, but for many fans, it increasingly feels like they’re being priced out of it.