FIFA reportedly made $5bn from 2026 World Cup tickets and hospitality

FIFA reportedly earned about $5 billion from ticket sales and hospitality at the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico, far more than its original estimate and around five times what it made in Qatar four years ago.
The figures
According to a report in a British newspaper, the $5 billion figure compares with an earlier FIFA estimate of $3.3 billion for the same revenue stream. Total revenue from the tournament is put at about $15 billion. Qatar 2022 reportedly brought in $929 million from tickets and hospitality. The 2026 tournament had 40 more matches because of the expanded 48-team format, but much of the increase is said to come from higher prices and dynamic pricing, where ticket costs rise with demand. FIFA's resale platform also reportedly takes a 30 per cent cut of resold tickets.
Criticism
Fan groups have described the prices as extortionate and scandalous. Football Supporters Europe called them a monumental betrayal of fans, many of whom also faced high travel and hotel costs in North America.
FIFA's response
FIFA has not officially confirmed the $5 billion figure. A spokesperson said more than 100,000 of the 6.81 million tickets were sold at $60, including more than 1,000 for the final. The spokesperson said the money would be reinvested in football, including support for its 211 member associations, and that official revenue figures would appear in its annual report after audits. FIFA also plans to raise funding for member associations to $6.35 billion for 2027 to 2030.
Why it matters
The figures are likely to add to debate over the cost of attending major tournaments, with fan groups already pressing for price caps at future World Cups.
- Qatar 2022 reportedly made $929m from the same stream.
- FIFA has not confirmed the figure and will publish audited accounts.
- Fan groups call the prices extortionate.



