FIFA boosts World Cup prize money as Morocco set for major financial windfall

FIFA has significantly increased the financial rewards for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup, with total prize money now set to reach $871 million.

The expanded fund will be shared among the 48 participating teams in the tournament, which will be hosted across United States, Mexico, and Canada.

Each qualified team is expected to receive around $18 million, up from the initially announced $727 million total. The decision was confirmed during a FIFA Council meeting held in Vancouver ahead of the federation’s general assembly.

Financial Relief Amid Rising Costs

The increase comes in response to concerns raised by several member associations over rising travel, tax, and operational expenses linked to participation in the tournament. FIFA has also raised its preparation grant from $1.5 million to $2.5 million per team, while the qualification bonus has been increased from $9 million to $10 million.

Additional allocations have been made to support national team delegations and ticketing costs, ensuring that teams are better equipped financially for the expanded global showpiece.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino emphasized the organisation’s strong financial position, stating that it allows for unprecedented support to member associations and reinvestment into the game.

Morocco Set to Benefit

The financial boost is expected to translate into a significant windfall for Royal Moroccan Football Federation, thanks to the participation of the national team, widely known as the Atlas Lions. Reports indicate that the federation could receive around 18 billion centimes from the tournament.

Record Revenues and Growing Criticism

FIFA is projected to generate approximately $13 billion from the current four-year World Cup cycle, which concludes with the 2026 edition. The prize pool represents a 50 percent increase compared to the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

However, the financial expansion comes amid criticism over high ticket prices and rising transportation costs, particularly in the United States, where local authorities are expected to increase fares during the competition.

New Rules to Be Enforced at the Tournament

FIFA has also confirmed several rule changes that will take effect during the World Cup, which kicks off in Mexico City on June 11.

One of the key amendments targets player behaviour during on-field confrontations. Players who cover their mouths while engaging with opponents may now face a red card, as part of efforts to combat racism and improve transparency in disciplinary matters.

The decision follows a controversial incident involving Vinícius Júnior and Gianluca Prestianni during a UEFA Champions League match, which led to disciplinary action by UEFA.

Additional Disciplinary Measures

Further rule changes include stricter sanctions for players who leave the pitch in protest against refereeing decisions, with such actions now punishable by a red card. FIFA also confirmed that any team responsible for causing a match to be abandoned will be considered the loser.

This follows controversy surrounding the Africa Cup of Nations final involving Senegal national team, whose players and staff walked off the pitch in protest.

Yellow Card Rule Adjustment

In a move aimed at ensuring top players remain available for key matches, FIFA announced that yellow cards accumulated during the group stage will be cleared after the first round, and again after the quarter-finals. The change is designed to prevent suspensions in crucial knockout fixtures due to accumulated bookings.

With increased financial incentives and new regulations in place, the 2026 World Cup is shaping up to be one of the most transformative editions in the tournament’s history.