FIFA updates World Cup 2026 financial distribution and disciplinary rules

The FIFA Council, meeting in Vancouver, has increased the total prize money for the 48-team 2026 World Cup to $871 million, a 15% rise from the previously announced $727 million. This decision aims to address concerns from member federations regarding high operational costs, such as travel, taxes, and daily expenses. Specifically, the preparation grant has been raised from $1.5 million to $2.5 million, and the participation grant has increased from $9 million to $10 million. Additionally, FIFA approved new disciplinary measures at a meeting in Vancouver involving the International Football Association Board. Players may now receive a straight red card for covering their mouths while speaking to opponents, a measure intended to deter offensive or racist remarks. Furthermore, referees are authorized to send off players who leave the pitch to protest decisions, and teams causing a permanent abandonment of a match may face an automatic loss. The tournament is scheduled to take place from June 11 to July 19, 2026, across the United States, Mexico, and Canada.