FIFA expected to generate $9 billion as World Cup ends

The 2026 FIFA World Cup ended with Spain beating Argentina 10 in extra time, but the tournament’s biggest financial winner was FIFA. The governing body said the expanded event is expected to produce more than $9 billion in revenue this year. This year’s competition was the first World Cup to feature 48 teams, up from 32, and 104 matches across six weeks. The larger format created more ticket sales, broadcast inventory and sponsorship opportunities, helping drive the event’s record revenue. The article also notes that FIFA president Gianni Infantino has discussed the possibility of expanding the tournament further to 64 teams in 2030. FIFA plans to distribute billions in development funding to its member associations over the next several years as part of its broader football investment program.