FIFA boosts 2026 World Cup payouts — and it could reshape how teams (and fans) experience the tournament

FIFA has confirmed a 15% increase in financial distributions to all 48 teams at the 2026 World Cup, a move framed as support amid rising travel and ticketing pressures. Beyond the headline figure, the decision signals a broader tug-of-war over costs, competitive balance, and what a 48-team World Cup should financially guarantee.