The 2026 World Cup, hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, marks the largest edition in the tournament's history. For the first time, 48 teams will compete in 104 matches over five weeks. In response to the expanded format, FIFA has increased the prize fund to a record-breaking £491 million, a 50% rise compared to the 2022 tournament in Qatar, which featured 32 teams.
How much do the winners get?
The victorious team on July 19 will receive approximately £37.2 million, while the runners-up will earn £24.6 million. The third-place finisher will take home £21.6 million, slightly more than the fourth-place team's £20 million. Losing quarter-finalists will each receive £14 million, and teams eliminated in the Round of 16 will get £11.2 million. Those reaching the Round of 32 will earn £8.2 million, and the 16 teams that fail to advance from the group stage will still receive £6.7 million each.
Additionally, all participating nations will receive a £1.1 million payment from FIFA to cover preparation costs, ensuring no team leaves North America with less than £7.8 million in total.
World Cup prize money round-by-round
- Group stage: £6.7 million
- Round of 32: £8.2 million
- Round of 16: £11.2 million
- Quarter-finals: £14 million
- Fourth place: £20 million
- Third place: £21.6 million
- Runners-up: £24.6 million
- Winners: £37.2 million
Do players get a share of the prize money?
Players typically receive a portion of the prize fund, but it is not automatic. FIFA pays the prize money directly to each nation's football association, not to the players themselves. While no rule mandates that players must receive a share, agreements between associations and players often determine how the funds are distributed. Some associations also pay players per appearance at major tournaments, and bonuses may be awarded for match wins, advancing to specific stages, or winning the competition outright.
