The budget for the 2026 FIFA World Cup

The 2026 World Cup promises to be an unprecedented spectacle. Three host countries, the United States, Canada and Mexico, for a larger format and legendary stadiums ready to vibrate to the cheers of fans from all over the world. But this celebration of football hides a colossal financial machine with figures and stakes that will make 2026 an unforgettable edition.

The financial organization of the 2026 World Cup

A first in the world history of football, this 23rd edition of the tournament will be organized by three countries and will implement an expanded format of 48 teams compared to 32 previously. The budget planned for this edition is estimated at around 9.8 billion euros, a considerable amount that can be explained by the scale of the project. Indeed, the extension of the format to 48 teams requires the construction or renovation of around thirty stadiums across the three host countries.

From the outset, a significant portion of this budget will be allocated to building new sports infrastructure and renovating existing stadiums. Host countries will have to invest around €1.8 billion to bring these stadiums up to FIFA requirements and spectator expectations. This involves not only modernizing the structures, but also developing new facilities in cities where stadiums are non-existent or obsolete. At the same time, between organizing site security, managing the transportation of thousands of spectators, teams and media, and accommodating participants and visitors, the logistical costs associated with the event will be colossal. The 2026 World Cup is a co-hosting event, so responsibilities are not evenly distributed. The United States is hosting the majority of matches, including the final, and therefore bears the bulk of the costs and potential benefits. Canada and Mexico, with fewer matches, have a lesser financial impact, but must still modernize their stadiums and manage the logistics of welcoming teams and supporters.

Record figures and sources of funding for the 2026 World Cup

To finance this historic edition, the host countries are counting on several sources of revenue, with a particular focus on broadcasting rights, ticketing and sponsorship agreements. Indeed, FIFA and the host countries hope to generate billions of euros through the sale of television rights, the marketing of partnerships and the sale of tickets. The 2026 World Cup represents a unique opportunity to maximize this revenue, with a record global audience expected.

The economic impact of this 2026 World Cup

Due to the scale of the event and the extension of broadcasting rights, the economic impact of the 2026 World Cup is expected to be massive. For the three countries, tourism, infrastructure and job creation will largely benefit from the influx of millions of spectators. Revenue generated by broadcasting rights and sponsorship is expected to reach several billion euros. For the local economy and the GDP of the host countries, the impact is estimated at between 10 and 15 billion euros. The ticketing market, commercial partnerships and the sale of derivative products should also generate significant revenues. The impact of the 2026 World Cup could exceed usual forecasts thanks to its scale.

The 2026 World Cup is establishing itself as an event that is as spectacular as it is strategic in economic terms. With record investments and major financial spinoffs, will these gains really benefit all the stakeholders involved?