FIFA generated approximately $5 billion from ticket and hospitality sales during the 2026 World Cup, which was co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, according to a report by Martyn Ziegler of The Times. This figure substantially surpassed FIFA's own projection of $3.3 billion for the tournament and contributed significantly to the World Cup's overall revenue of $15 billion.
The global football governing body's earnings from this revenue stream were five times greater than the $929 million collected during the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
Fan organizations have criticized FIFA's pricing strategies, with Football Supporters Europe labeling the costs as "extortionate" and a "monumental betrayal" to fans already facing considerable expenses for travel and accommodation.
While the 2026 tournament featured 40 more matches than the previous one, FIFA's increased ticket prices, including the implementation of dynamic pricing, are cited as key drivers of the revenue surge. The organization also reportedly took a 30 percent cut from secondary market ticket sales through its own resale platform.
In response to inquiries from The Times, FIFA did not confirm the $5 billion figure. A spokesperson stated that revenues generated by the tournament would be channeled into additional funding for FIFA's 211 member associations. The spokesperson highlighted that over 100,000 tickets across the tournament were priced at $60 or less, including more than 1,000 for the final.
FIFA indicated that tournament revenues would be published in its next annual report, following requisite audit processes. The organization also presented a proposed initiative, the FIFA Surplus Solidarity Programme, which aims to more than double planned funding for the 2027-2030 period to $6.35 billion by utilizing a portion of FIFA's reserves.