In response to requests from European teams for increased prize money and assistance with participation costs in this summer's World Cup, FIFA is poised to fulfill those wishes for all 48 participating countries. The world governing body has been in discussions with national associations to boost funding, and the proposals are expected to be approved at the FIFA Council meeting on April 28 in Vancouver.
World Cup Revenue and Prize Fund
The World Cup, scheduled from June 11 to July 19, is projected to generate over $11 billion in revenue. In December, FIFA announced a record prize fund of $727 million, with the winner receiving $50 million and each team at least $10.5 million. Since then, FIFA and national associations have engaged in talks to resolve financial concerns before the FIFA Congress meeting on April 30.
UEFA's Request and Host Country Costs
UEFA, European football's governing body, contacted FIFA after several member associations raised concerns about the costs of participating in the World Cup, including travel, operations, and taxes, particularly in the United States. Canada and Mexico are the other host countries. The increased financial contributions aim to alleviate these burdens.
Last month, The Athletic reported that FIFA had cut over $100 million from its World Cup operating departments, causing concerns for host cities whose plans had already been scaled down due to budgeting issues. Among U.S. host cities, only Houston and Philadelphia are proceeding with their original plans for the 39-day festival.
“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,” a FIFA spokesperson told The Athletic. “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.”
