The 2026 World Cup winners will earn $50 million as FIFA announces a record prize fund, raising excitement ahead of the expanded global tournament.

The upcoming World Cup will also be the biggest ever. It will feature 48 teams instead of 32 and will be hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada from June 11 to July 19. With more teams involved, FIFA says higher rewards were necessary.

In the last World Cup, Argentina earned $42 million after Lionel Messi led them to victory over France. France received $30 million as runners-up. In 2026, the losing finalists will get $33 million, third-place teams $29 million, and the other semi-finalists $27 million.

Teams knocked out in the group stage will still receive $9 million. On top of that, all 48 participating nations will be given an extra $1.5 million to help cover preparation costs.

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FIFA has also responded to fan criticism over high ticket prices. A new low-cost option called the “Supporter Entry Tier” has been introduced, priced at $60 for all 104 matches, including the final.

According to FIFA, these tickets are aimed at travelling supporters and will be reserved for fans of qualified teams. They will make up 10 percent of each national federation’s ticket allocation.

The first ticket draw, covering all price categories, is scheduled for Tuesday, January 13.