The Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) has declared a substantial 50% rise in prize money for the 2026 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. This increase is part of a record-breaking $727 million financial package approved by FIFA's council during a meeting in Doha, Qatar.

The council, which convened ahead of the FIFA Intercontinental Cup final, made several key decisions regarding youth football development and governance matters. The approved financial package is the largest in World Cup history, with $655 million allocated as prize money for the 48 participating teams. This represents a 50% increase compared to the previous tournament.

The prize money distribution is as follows:

- Champions: $50 million
- Runners-up: $33 million
- 3rd place: $29 million
- 4th place: $27 million
- 5th-8th place: $19 million
- 9th-16th place: $15 million
- 17th-32nd place: $11 million
- 33rd-48th place: $9 million

Additionally, each qualified team will receive $1.5 million for preparation costs, ensuring that every participating member association is guaranteed at least $10.5 million.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino commented on the financial contribution, stating, "The FIFA World Cup 2026 will also be groundbreaking in terms of its financial contribution to the global football community."

FIFA anticipates record revenues of $13 billion over the four-year cycle ending with the 2026 World Cup, up from $7.5 billion in the previous cycle. This growth is largely attributed to the expansion of the World Cup and the men's Club World Cup held in the US last summer.

During the same council meeting, FIFA introduced a new U-15 festival-style tournament open to all 211 member associations. The first edition, scheduled for 2026, will feature boys' teams, followed by a girls' tournament in 2027. From 2028 onwards, both boys' and girls' U-15 teams will be invited to participate in separate competitions. These matches will be shorter in duration, played on smaller pitches, and feature teams with seven to nine players per side.

President Infantino emphasized FIFA's commitment to youth football, stating, "In recent years, FIFA has stepped up its efforts to boost youth football. We have been very active in promoting youth competitions and development, and this is a natural next step."

Additionally, the FIFA Council approved the establishment of a post-conflict recovery fund, following President Infantino's announcement at the Sharm El-Sheikh Summit for Peace. This fund aims to support regions affected by conflict.

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