FIFA Increases Prize Money and Implements Reforms for 48 Teams

The global governing body of football, FIFA, has announced a 15% boost in funding for all 48 teams partaking in upcoming international tournaments located in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

Under the new financial structure, the preparation funds allocated to each national team have surged from $1.5 million to $2.5 million. Moreover, funds for qualification have increased from $9 million to $10 million. Additional financial support for team delegation expenses and increased ticket allocations will exceed $16 million.

FIFA stated that any leftover revenue will be distributed among its 211 member associations.

Gianni Infantino, FIFA’s President, emphasized that the organization has never been in a stronger financial position, noting that these funds will be redirected to bolster the development of football worldwide.

Major Governance and Competition Changes

FIFA has also authorized several significant decisions:

• Permitting the Afghan Women’s Refugee Team to enter official FIFA competitions through a governance amendment.

• In the FIFA World Cup 2026, single yellow cards will be cleared post-group stage and again after the quarter-finals.

• Armenia and Georgia selected to host the FIFA U-20 World Cup in 2029.

• Miami, USA, will host the final event of the 2027 FIFA Women’s Champions Cup from January 27 to 31.

• The FIFA U-17 World Cup 2026 is scheduled in Qatar from November 19 to December 13.

International Calendar Updates

FIFA also confirmed significant dates for future tournaments:

• AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027: January 7 – February 5, 2027

• Concacaf Gold Cup 2027: June 19 – July 11, 2027

• CAF Africa Cup of Nations 2027: June 19 – July 17, 2027

FIFA Presidency Elections Timeline

As per FIFA Statutes, the presidential election for the term of 2027–2031 is set to take place at the 77th FIFA Congress in 2027. The electoral process will commence on April 30, 2026.

FIFA asserts these new changes aim to strengthen global football, enhance fairness, and broaden opportunities for all member nations.