FIFA, has announced an increase in prize money for the upcoming 2026 Men’s World Cup. The total fund has been set at $655m, which is 50% more than the amount distributed during the 2022 tournament in Qatar.
This financial commitment ensures that every participating country will receive a major payout. The tournament champions will earn $50m , while the runners-up will get $33m. Prize money extends deep into the competition, with payments for every stage of the tournament, from the quarter-finals down to the group stage.
For Ghana, this announcement brings guaranteed financial benefits even before a ball is kicked. Each team that qualifies for the 2026 World Cup will receive a $1.5m preparation fee. Combined with a base $9m payment for participating in the group stage, Ghana is already assured a minimum of $10.5 m from the tournament.
The potential rewards increase with each round the team advances. If Ghana progresses to the new Round of 32 stage, their total earnings would rise to $12.5m. Reaching the Round of 16 would further increase the financial package to $16.5m.
The expanded 48 team tournament format, coupled with this record prize fund, marks a new era for the World Cup. It promises not only greater competition on the field but also unprecedented financial support for the national football federations involved.
Ghana will now look towards their qualification campaign, with the knowledge that a place at the 2026 World Cup offers both sporting prestige and substantial economic assurance for its football development.