FIFA distributed a record $871 million in prize money at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, making it the most financially rewarding tournament in the competition’s history.
The expanded 48-team tournament, staged across the United States, Canada and Mexico from June 11 to July 19, concluded with Spain defeating Argentina 1-0 after extra time to claim their second World Cup title. As champions, Spain received $51 million, while runners-up Argentina earned $34 million.
England, who defeated France 6-4 in the third-place playoff, collected $30 million, with France receiving $28 million for finishing fourth.
FIFA had initially announced a prize pool of $727 million before approving an increase in April 2026, raising the total fund to $871 million through enhanced participation payments and preparation grants.
Of the total amount, $703 million was allocated based on teams’ performances. Quarter-finalists each earned $20 million, Round of 16 teams received $16 million, nations finishing between 17th and 32nd collected $12 million, while teams placed 33rd to 48th received $10 million.
The remaining $168 million was shared among all 48 participating nations through preparation funding and additional financial support to help cover training camps, travel, logistics and administrative costs.
As a result, every team that qualified for the tournament was guaranteed a minimum of $12.5 million, regardless of its performance.
