FIFA Projects Over $9 Billion World Cup Revenue as 48-Team Format Expands to 104 Matches
Updated
Updated · CNBC · Jul 20
FIFA Projects Over $9 Billion World Cup Revenue as 48-Team Format Expands to 104 Matches
3 articles · Updated · CNBC · Jul 20
Summary
$9 billion-plus in 2026 revenue would make the World Cup the most lucrative sporting event yet for FIFA after Sunday’s final in North America.
48 teams and 104 matches — up from 32 teams and 64 four years ago — gave FIFA more broadcast inventory, ticket sales and sponsorship opportunities over a six-week tournament.
Ticket prices from $60 to more than $10,000 still met strong demand, with group-stage stadium utilization at 99%, easing earlier concerns about affordability and attendance.
Gianni Infantino is already floating a 64-team World Cup for 2030, when FIFA has set aside a $6 billion budget for the tournament’s 100th anniversary edition.
$2.7 billion in planned development funding for 2027-2030 under FIFA Forward 4.0 underscores how expansion and redistribution reinforce Infantino’s support among member nations.