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It comes as little surprise that the largest World Cup in history is set to generate a staggering fortune for FIFA, who have orchestrated what is shaping up to be the most financially rewarding sporting event ever staged.
This summer's flagship tournament, taking place across the United States, Canada and Mexico, was always destined to produce enormous revenue simply due to the sheer scale of the competition. The 2026 World Cup boasts an expanded field of 48 teams and 104 matches, translating to more tickets and broadcasting rights available for sale, along with greater sponsorship opportunities.
Coupled with the inflated resale market, from which FIFA stands to collect 30% of every secondary transaction, the governing body is on course to surpass its revenue targets for the past four years — and by a considerable margin.
FIFA to Bank '10 Figures' in 2026 Alone
According to FIFA's latest financial report, as highlighted by The Guardian, the governing body is projected to bring in approximately $8.9 billion this year — nearly $4 billion more than the $5.24 billion generated by the Paris 2024 Olympics.
The figures become even more remarkable when accounting for the four-year cycle leading up to this summer's World Cup. FIFA is poised to walk away with a combined $13.1 billion from revenue accumulated between 2023 and 2026:
A significant portion of FIFA's revenue comes from $3.9 billion in TV broadcasting and media income. The second-largest source is $3 billion derived from hospitality and ticket sales.
Sponsorship revenue is also anticipated to surpass $2.8 billion at the World Cup.
FIFA Cashes in, But Fans Pay the Price
Not a single minute of soccer has been played, yet the 2026 World Cup is already a resounding success for FIFA — at least from a financial standpoint. With over $13 billion flowing in, it's hard to imagine the governing body having much to grumble about.
Nevertheless, fans, players and coaches worldwide have directed sharp criticism at FIFA over the tournament's prohibitive ticket prices, which are pricing out devoted supporters who wish to watch their nations compete in the stands this summer.
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola recently slammed FIFA for making the tournament "so expensive," stressing that "fans are the key" to what makes the World Cup so special. U.S. men's national team forward Tim Weah also spoke out against the "too expensive" tickets, warning that "real fans [will] miss matches."
Parking and train costs have also drawn heavy criticism, with New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill calling out FIFA for leaving the state with a "$48 million bill to safely get fans to and from games" without any financial contribution, resulting in train fares skyrocketing from $12.90 to $150 for a journey from Penn Station in New York City to MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
The controversy surrounding the tournament will only intensify as it draws nearer, particularly if costs continue to spiral further out of reach.