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Billions in revenue proves Fifa right on the World Cup – but only on things it cares about
Fifa says the 2026 World Cup generated $15bn in revenue, exceeding its projections and reinforcing president Gianni Infantino’s position ahead of an election in March. The figures suggest that, despite criticism of the tournament’s commercial choices and political controversies, its financial success has strengthened the organisation’s leadership.
About $5bn reportedly came from ticket sales and hospitality, around five times the equivalent income at Qatar 2022; across the expanded schedule, average revenue per match rose from roughly $14.5m to $48m. Attendance reached 6.8 million, nearly double the previous record of just under 3.6 million, creating larger payouts for Fifa’s 211 member associations, whose presidents vote in its elections. The article argues that this flow of money helps explain why Infantino retains support and why meaningful reform remains difficult.
In short
- The 2026 World Cup brought Fifa $15bn.
- Ticket and hospitality income reportedly reached $5bn.
- Record attendance may strengthen Infantino’s position.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
The reported $15bn in revenue, record attendance and increased payouts to member associations suggest Fifa’s commercial strategy has delivered substantial financial benefits. Supporters could argue that these funds help develop football worldwide and that strong demand shows the expanded tournament appeals to fans, strengthening Infantino’s case to continue leading the organisation.
The case against
Financial success does not by itself show that Fifa’s choices serve football fairly or address concerns about the tournament’s commercial direction and political controversies. Critics could argue that distributing more money to associations whose leaders vote in Fifa elections risks entrenching the leadership, while revenue figures reveal little about who bears the costs or how effectively funds support the game.