This is one of the major concerns of the selections involved in this 2026 World Cup: the staggering cost of living in the United States, and the colossal budget thus necessary for participation this summer in the high mass of football. A concern shared by FIFA.
Faced with the galloping inflation already observed or announced as soon as the competition began – for team travel in particular – the international federation decided this week on the sidelines of a Council organized in Vancouver to increase by 15% the allocations granted to qualified nations.
More generous envelopes
This means 871 million dollars (744 million euros) will be distributed between the different selections involved as compensation. This compared to the 727 million dollars (621 million euros) initially planned by FIFA. In detail, the so-called “preparation” envelope increases from 1.5 to 2.5 million dollars, that dedicated to “participation” from 9 to 10 million dollars.
“ Fifa is proud to be in unprecedented financial health, which allows us to help our member associations like never before », Welcomes President Gianni Infantino in a press release. Note that the bonus allocated to the future winner of the tournament has jumped by 50% compared to the 2022 edition in Qatar. The crowned selection in New York on July 19 will indeed pocket no less than 50 million dollars (43 million euros).
