The FIFA World Cup is regarded as one of the grandest sports competitions in the world, with the winning teams earning a lump sum in the process. The FIFA Council has now confirmed a record-breaking prize fund for next year’s tournament.
So, how much will the 2026 FIFA World Cup-winning team earn in July next year?
FIFA Council Reveals 2026 World Cup Prize Money
According to reliable journalist Ben Jacobs, the FIFA Council has confirmed a financial pot of $727 million for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The entire amount will be distributed among the 48 competing teams, also known as the Participating Member Associations (PMAs).
The 2026 FIFA World Cup winner will earn $50 million in prize money, while the runners-up will pocket $33 million. The third-place playoff winner will receive $29 million and the losing team will earn $27 million. All sides finishing between fifth and eighth will rake in $19 million each. All PMAs between ninth and 16th will pocket $15 million each.
Moreover, all 48 teams competing in the 2026 FIFA World Cup will receive $1.5 million each as preparation costs. Overall, all PMAs are guaranteed an income of at least $10.5 million.
In 2022, Argentina received $42 million after defeating France on penalties in the FIFA World Cup final at Lusail Stadium in Lusail, Qatar, according to ESPN.
Former USMNT Star Draws Ire After 2026 FIFA World Cup Claims
Earlier this month, former United States men’s national team (USMNT) defender Alexi Lalas was berated by USMNT head coach Mauricio Pochettino. He had suggested that the USMNT failing to advance from the group stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup would be akin to a disaster.
READ MORE: FIFA Introduces Special 2026 World Cup Ticket Concessions
Responding to Lalas’ remarks, Pochettino chose to jump to the USMNT players’ defence.
“What we cannot do is put pressure on our players. The players need to enjoy and feel free to perform. We need to show respect for our opponents. I understand what you’re saying, but we cannot win before we play. We cannot look ahead to the next round when we haven’t played,” Pochettino said when asked to react to Lalas’ comments (via The Athletic).
Pochettino, who is a former Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur manager, added, “My message to the players is Paraguay, Australia, and the other team is going to be difficult. We need to prepare like each game is the final of the World Cup. Thinking we should win before we play the games is the wrong mindset.”
Pochettino’s team will face Australia, Paraguay, and the UEFA Playoff C winner in Group D at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, scheduled to take place from June 11 to July 19 next year.
