The team that lifts the World Cup trophy next week won’t just have their name etched into football history – they’ll be flush with cash.
SBS News reports that FIFA increased the financial distributions at this year’s World Cup to a record $1.25 billion, making it the largest prize pool in the competition’s history.
About $938 million will be paid out as performance-based prize money, nearly 50 per cent more than the $630 million offered at Qatar in 2022.
The further a team progresses in the tournament, the bigger the payday.
This year’s champions, which will be either Spain or Argentina, will take home US $50 million. The runner-up will receive US $33 million.
Each of the 48 teams receives a guaranteed minimum payment of US $12.5.
That comprises a US $2.5 million preparation allowance to help cover travel, accommodation and logistics.
The money is paid out regardless of a team’s performance, with the performance-based prize money added on top.
Australia, which placed 22nd after being eliminated in the Round of 32, earned US $11 million in performance prize money, in addition to their minimum payment.
FIFA also compensates clubs that release their players for the World Cup through its separate $508 milliom Clubs Benefits Program.
The prize pool has grown significantly over the years, increasing nearly fivefold since 2002.
