Overview

• FIFA confirmed a record $355 million Club Benefits Programme for the 2026 cycle, up from $209 million after the 2022 tournament.
• For the first time, clubs that release players for World Cup qualifying matches will receive direct compensation.
• The expansion stems from a 2023 memorandum of understanding between FIFA and the European Club Association to formalize a broader revenue-sharing model.
• FIFA expects the number of beneficiary clubs to rise well beyond the 440 from 51 countries paid in 2022, with even lower-league teams potentially in line for payments.
• The 2026 World Cup will be staged in the United States, Mexico and Canada from June 11 to July 19.