The FIFA achieved a historic record in revenue with the 2026 World Cup, raising about US$15 billion, a figure that far exceeded the projected US$11 billion before the tournament began.
The announcement was made by FIFA President Gianni Infantino at a meeting with affiliated federations before the final between Spain and Argentina. The result represents an increase of nearly 36% compared to the original financial target.
How it compares to Qatar 2022 revenue
The revenue from the 2026 World Cup far exceeds the US$7.6 billion raised in Qatar 2022. The growth was driven by ticket sales, marketing, and broadcasting rights, in addition to the expansion to 48 teams and 104 matches.
As explained by Infantino, much of the increase was due to hospitality and ticket sales in the secondary market, where prices reached very high values. In the final, some spectators paid up to US$35,000 for a ticket.
How FIFA's commission works in ticket resale
In the official resale system, FIFA receives a 15% commission from the buyer and another 15% from the seller, a mechanism that significantly increased revenue during the tournament.
The global economic impact of the 2026 World Cup
The economic impact will not only benefit FIFA. Although the exact distribution has not yet been defined, it is expected that national federations will also receive part of the budget increase generated by the tournament.
FIFA estimated that about US$40 billion would be added to the global economy, of which US$20 billion would boost only the U.S. economy, creating 185,000 jobs, mainly in hospitality, restaurants, and accommodation.
Institutional support for Infantino
For Infantino, this result represents institutional support after several weeks marked by questioning. The leader believes that financial success strengthens his leadership, especially after receiving more than 200 promises of support for his re-election, scheduled for March.
The United States could host the World Cup again
The economic success of the tournament also fueled the possibility that the United States could host the next edition open for bids, that of 2038.
During a reception on Friday, President Donald Trump expressed that desire: “They should choose the United States again. This time we will leave Canada and Mexico out”. The country is also in talks with FIFA to host the 2029 Club World Cup.
