How 2026 World Cup became football’s most lucrative tournament
World’s football governing body FIFA has been able to generate more than $13 billion in revenue from the just concluded 2026 World Cup co-hosted by USA, Canada and Mexico.
The amount earned by FIFA at the 2026 tournament is reported to have surpassed its pre-tournament projection of $11 billion -making the soccer competition the most commercially successful in football history.
FIFA president Gianni Infantino informed member associations of the record financial performance, with the governing body now expected to announce revenues approaching $15 billion, according to multiple reports.
The sharp increase in revenue was driven mainly by the tournament’s expanded 48-team format, which created more matches, larger broadcasting deals and increased sponsorship opportunities.
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Hospitality packages and ticket sales also played a major in the record haul, particularly through FIFA’s official secondary ticket marketplace, where the governing body receives 15% commission from both buyers and sellers. Strong demand, especially for the final at the MetLife Stadium, also pushed ticked prices to unprecedented levels.
The financial windfall is expected to strengthen FIFA’s ability to invest in global football development.
The governing body has already committed a record $871 million in prize money and participation payments to the 48 nations, with champions Spain receiving $50 million.
FIFA is expected to provide further details on how the additional revenue will be allocated among its 211 member associations and future development programmes.
