The World Cup final between Spain and Argentina was locked in extra time on Sunday evening in New Jersey, with more than just the trophy at stake. The victor will pocket $50 million (£37m) in performance-based prize money, while the runner-up will receive $28.8 million (£21.4m) – a significant increase on the $42m awarded to champions Argentina in Qatar in 2022.
FIFA has raised the overall prize pool for the 2026 tournament to $655m (£490m), a 50 per cent increase on the previous edition. Even teams eliminated early are guaranteed at least $10.5m for qualifying. The financial stakes are record-breaking, but the drama on the pitch was equally intense.
“World Cup final winners get $50m as Spain and Argentina go to extra time in record-prize showdown.”
Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez was sent off for Argentina, while Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez limped off with a major injury blow. Former England forward Wayne Rooney delivered a damning verdict on the half-time show. England, who finished third after a pulsating 10-goal thriller against France, had earlier seen their dressing room left raging after a star swapped shirts with an Argentina rival.
The match, billed as a clash between European and South American champions, has lived up to its billing as the biggest game in football. The winner will not only take home the iconic trophy but also a cheque that dwarfs any previous World Cup winner's payout.