FIFA President Gianni Infantino revealed a substantial increase in financial support for the 2026 World Cup during the organization's Congress in Vancouver.
The total cash distributions for the World Cup have been raised to nearly 0 million, up from the initial figure of 7 million. This decision follows concerns raised by FIFA members regarding the high costs associated with participation in the tournament.
The increase in funding includes a rise in preparation costs award to .5 million per qualified team and a million payment for qualifying for the tournament. Notably, the South African Football Association will receive an additional million in funding.
FIFA's solid financial position allows for these adjustments, with President Gianni Infantino highlighting the reinvestment of resources back into the game. The governing body is expected to earn around billion from the current World Cup cycle, with the 2026 prize money having significantly increased from previous tournaments.
Aside from financial changes, FIFA announced new rules to combat racism, including red cards for players covering their mouths during confrontations and penalties for teams causing matches to be abandoned.
