Under the reported package, each of the 48 participating nations would receive US$12.5 million before performance bonuses. That combines US$10 million for qualification with US$2.5 million for preparation.
For smaller federations, that guaranteed amount could transform tournament planning. It offers a clearer financial base for travel, training camps, staffing and player development, regardless of results.
The report also links the larger prize pool to the tournament’s expanded structure:
The reported bonus ladder places a premium on surviving each stage:
The rewards rise further at the business end. Fourth place would reportedly bring US$27 million, with the third-placed team receiving US$29 million and the runner-up US$33 million.
The winner’s performance payment is listed at US$50 million. Combined with the reported base and preparation allocation, the champion could receive US$62.5 million before additional subsidies for delegation costs and ticket allocations.
That structure rewards both participation and ambition. A federation can secure a substantial floor simply by qualifying, but a deep run creates a much larger return.
The next storyline will emerge as qualifying nations build their budgets for 2026. Once the tournament begins, the key question will be whether the expanded financial rewards produce a wider competitive field-or simply increase the advantage of established football powers.