As football's biggest stars create history on the pitch, Fifa is generating billions off it — and the numbers are staggering. The world governing body's revenues over the four-year cycle approaching $13bn, according to Marion Laboure, senior strategist at Deutsche Bank Research, making it "without question" the main winner of the tournament. Fifa generated a record $7.6bn from Qatar 2022 and is expected to top that in the expanded 2026 tournament co-hosted by the US, Canada and Mexico.
This year's World Cup has been bigger than any before, with more countries and more matches drawing more eyeballs and opportunities to make money. Fifa's income comes from broadcasting, licensing, hospitality rights, sponsorship deals and ticket sales. It also moved into the secondary market with its official resale marketplace, taking a 15% fee from both buyer and seller, Laboure added. The organisation is considering expanding yet again to 64 teams, which could include China and India — and the billions more viewers that come with them.
“Fifa's revenues approach $13bn from 2026 World Cup as fans face soaring ticket and travel costs”
But while Fifa and its president Gianni Infantino celebrate, fans have been squeezed financially. Tickets alone have sparked fury. US President Donald Trump admitted he "wouldn't pay" when asked about the potential $1,000 ticket price for his country's tournament opener against Paraguay. Tickets for the final at New Jersey's MetLife Stadium were officially offered at $32,970, while some resale tickets have been listed for more than $2m. Infantino defended the costs, arguing they were in line with other US sporting events.
The strain extends beyond tickets. A 30-minute train journey to MetLife Stadium rose to $150 for the tournament from the usual $12.90 return fare. A backlash forced New Jersey Transit to cut prices, but they still remained higher than normal. Fans have also faced soaring costs for flights, food and accommodation.
In contrast, broadcasters have spent fortunes to televise the tournament, eyeing massive viewing figures. The financial winners are clear — but for many fans, the dream of attending the world's biggest sporting event has come at a heavy price.
