FIFA 2026 World Cup prize increase sees higher preparation and participation fees approved for teams ahead of the tournament in North America

The world football governing body, FIFA, has approved an increase in financial packages for teams participating in the 2026 FIFA World Cup scheduled to hold in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

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The decision was confirmed during a FIFA Council meeting held in Vancouver, where adjustments were made to both preparation and participation allowances for qualified nations.

Under the new structure, participating teams will receive higher payments as part of a broader financial review for the expanded 48-team tournament format.

The World Cup, which returns to North America for the first time since 1994, will also be the first edition jointly hosted by three countries.

African representation has been expanded to 10 slots under the new format, reflecting FIFA’s revised allocation system.

The financial increase is expected to boost support for national teams as they prepare for the tournament, with participating federations set to benefit from enhanced funding before and during the competition.

The announcement also highlights FIFA’s continued expansion of prize and support structures, following earlier increases in overall tournament prize money.

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The 2026 World Cup is scheduled to take place across multiple cities in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.