Milan, 17 December (LaPresse) – It will be the richest World Cup ever. The FIFA Council met ahead of the Intercontinental Cup final in Doha, Qatar, and made key decisions on youth football development and governance issues. With excitement building after the final draw on 5 December 2025 in Washington DC, the Council approved a record financial contribution of €620 million to be distributed to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The largest share – €560 million, a 50% increase on the previous edition – will be distributed as prize money among the 48 participating teams. The winning team will receive approximately €42.6 million, while the runner-up will receive approximately €28 million. The third-placed team will receive approximately €24 million, followed by contributions from 4th to last place. Those who exit in the first phase will still take home approximately €7 million. In addition, each qualified team will receive €1.2 million to cover preparation costs. This means that all participating Member Associations will be guaranteed at least €9 million each for their participation in next year's tournament. Therefore, the World Cup-winning team will take home over €50 million. ‘The 2026 FIFA World Cup will also be revolutionary in terms of its financial contribution to the global football community,’ said FIFA President Gianni Infantino.
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