Record $51 Million Award for World Cup Champions

By Harry Bligh with AP

Published on 19/07/2026 – 18:55 GMT+2

The champion’s prize includes the iconic trophy, championship rings, and a cash award of $51 million (€44.6 million). The amount is disbursed to the national federation, which decides how to allocate it among players.

FIFA has raised the winning team’s payout this year. At the 2022 Qatar World Cup, Argentina earned $42 million (€36.7 million).

The champion will lift the renowned Italian‑crafted trophy, though it cannot be taken home; each player receives a gold‑plated replica.

For the first time, players will receive championship rings. This practice originates from the United States, a host nation this year. The rings, engraved with the World Cup emblem, will be personalized to reflect the identity of the winning team, per FIFA.

FIFA has increased overall tournament expenditure, totaling $871 million (€761 million) distributed among the 48 participating teams. Travel and accommodation are covered for each team, including staff. Every team receives a minimum of $12.5 million, comprising $10 million for qualifying and group‑stage participation and $2.5 million for pre‑tournament preparation and related expenses.

Additional prize money is awarded to the runners‑up: England, who secured third place by defeating France on Saturday, receives $30 million (€26 million), while France, finishing fourth, receives $28 million (€24.5 million).

Although $51 million appears substantial, it is modest compared with top‑level transfer fees. On Tuesday, Croatian defender Luka Vušković transferred to English club Brighton for $61.9 million (€54.1 million).

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