World football governing body FIFA has confirmed the prize money for next year’s World Cup, with each participant guaranteed $10.5 million (R175 million).
South Africa, Cape Verde, Algeria, Egypt, Tunisia, Morocco, Senegal, Ghana and Ivory Coast will represent the African continent at the global showpiece in North America.
DR Congo will also have an opportunity to book their spot via the play-offs in March next year.
FIFA has confirmed a total prize money of $727 million, 50% more than for Qatar 2022, to be distributed to Participating Member Associations.
The FIFA Council met yesterday ahead of the FIFA Intercontinental Cup final in Doha, Qatar, and took key decisions in relation to the development of youth football and governance matters.
“With excitement mounting following the final draw that took place on 5 December 2025 in Washington DC, the FIFA Council approved a record-breaking financial contribution of USD 727 million to be distributed as a result of the FIFA World Cup 2026,” FIFA stated.
The biggest share – marking a 50% increase compared to the previous edition – will be paid out as prize money among the 48 participating teams as follows:
- Champions: $50 million (R836 million)
- Runners-up: $33 million (R552 million)
- 3rd place: $29 million (R485 million)
- 4th place: $27 million (R451 million)
- 5th-8th place: $19 million (R318 million)
- 9th-16th place: $15 million (R251 million)
- 17th- 32nd place: $11 million (R184 million)
- 33rd-48th place: $9 million (R150 million)
In addition, each qualified team will receive $1.5 million (R25 million) to cover preparation costs. This means that all Participating Member Associations are guaranteed at least USD 10.5 million each for their participation in next year’s tournament.
“The FIFA World Cup 2026 will also be groundbreaking in terms of its financial contribution to the global football community,” added FIFA President, Gianni Infantino.
