In response to requests from European teams to increase prize money and help with costs associated with their participation this summer in the World Cupworld governance and World Cup organizer is ready to fulfill these wishes – for all 48 participating countries.
FIFA has been in discussions with national associations to boost funding, and the proposals are expected to be approved at the FIFA Council meeting on April 28 in Vancouver.
The World Cupwhich runs from June 11 to July 19, is expected to generate sales of more than $11 billion.
UEFA, European football’s governing body, has contacted FIFA after hearing from several member associations about the costs of participating in FIFA. World Cupincluding travel, operations and taxes, especially in the United States.
Canada and Mexico are the other host countries this summer.
FIFA announced a record in December World Cup prize fund of $727 million, with the winner taking home $50 million and each team receiving at least $10.5 million. Since that announcement in December, FIFA and national associations have entered into discussions and aim to resolve the issue before April 30, when the FIFA Congress meets.
Last month, The Athletic reported that FIFA had deducted more than $100 million World Cup operating departments, raising concerns for the host cities and their plans, which had already been scaled back due to budgetary concerns.
Of the U.S. host cities, only Houston and Philadelphia are moving ahead with their original plans for the 39-day festival.
“Ahead of a FIFA Council meeting in Vancouver, Canada, on April 28, 2026, FIFA can confirm that it is in discussions with associations around the world to increase available revenues,” a FIFA spokesperson told The Athletic.
“This includes a proposed increase in financial contributions to all qualifying teams for FIFA World Cup 2026 and of development financing available to all 211 member associations.”
