FIFA has increased the total prize and operational funding for the 2026 World Cup to nearly $900 million, following concerns from participating teams over rising costs linked to travel, taxes, and logistics.
In a statement issued after a meeting of its ruling council ahead of its Congress in Vancouver, FIFA said total distributions to the 48 participating teams will now rise to $871 million, up from $727 million announced in December.
The tournament will be co-hosted by Mexico, Canada, and the United States.
FIFA said the increase includes a boost in preparation grants for qualified teams from $1.5 million to $2.5 million, while qualification payments have been raised from $9 million to $10 million. Additional funding will also cover team delegation expenses and expanded ticket allocations.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino said the organisation’s strong financial position has enabled wider support for member associations, describing the move as unprecedented.
The decision comes as FIFA projects revenues of about $13 billion from the current World Cup cycle, with the 2026 edition already set to be the most financially lucrative in the tournament’s history.
Beyond financial adjustments, FIFA also approved several rule changes for the tournament, including stricter disciplinary measures. Players who cover their mouths during confrontations may now receive a red card at the discretion of competition officials, a move aimed at curbing abusive conduct.
In another change, players who leave the pitch in protest against refereeing decisions could also face dismissal, while teams that cause matches to be abandoned risk forfeiting games.
FIFA also introduced revisions to its disciplinary system, including the cancellation of accumulated yellow cards after the group stage and again after the quarter-finals to prevent key players from missing later rounds due to minor infractions.
The changes come amid ongoing debates over ticket pricing and operational costs, with some host cities also facing scrutiny over increased transport charges during the tournament period.
