The buildup to the 2026 World Cup has been overshadowed by controversy over ticket prices for the games, with FIFA forced to cut prices for a small number of tickets due to a backlash from supporters across the globe.
But despite their ticket-price climbdown, which ensures that some tickets will now be available for $60, FIFA has announced a record-breaking prize fund for the tournament on Wednesday during FIFA Council in Doha, Qatar.
The $727m overall fund will include a total of $655m being distributed to the teams based on their success in the competition, ranging from $9m for nations eliminated at the group stage to $33m for the losing finalists and the $50m set aside for the winners.
Argentina received $42 million after winning their third World Cup following a penalty shootout victory against France at Qatar 2022.
France received $38m after winning the 2018 World Cup. FIFA has been making the amount of World Cup prize money public since Italy was awarded $2.2m for winning the 1982 World Cup.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup begins on June 11 when co-hosts Mexico face South Korea in Mexico City.
