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FIFA Eyes Larger 2026 Prize as Fans Face Soaring Costs

4/28/2026

Summary

FIFA Considers Raise

FIFA is weighing a raise in prize money for the 48-team 2026 World Cup, with a council meeting later this year to decide.
The prize pool stands at $727 million, guaranteeing each nation at least $10.5 million and $50 million for the winners, with revenues projected above $11 billion.
Fans confront high costs, with train fares to MetLife Stadium over $100, key-match tickets in the thousands, and final resale listings reaching eye-watering levels.

Summary

FIFA Reviews Funding

FIFA Council will review prize-money boost at its Vancouver meeting on April 28, 2026, with approval at Congress on April 30.
Union of European Football Associations (UEFA)-coordinated federations have urged FIFA to raise participation fees due to higher travel and tax costs.
FIFA cut over $100 million from its World Cup budget at Miami headquarters as a cost-saving measure.
The plan earmarks funds for development programmes for all 211 FIFA member associations.

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FIFA Considers Raise

FIFA is weighing a raise in prize money for the 48-team 2026 World Cup, with a council meeting later this year to decide.
The prize pool stands at $727 million, guaranteeing each nation at least $10.5 million and $50 million for the winners, with revenues projected above $11 billion.
Fans confront high costs, with train fares to MetLife Stadium over $100, key-match tickets in the thousands, and final resale listings reaching eye-watering levels.

1 / 2