World Cup 2026: New Rules and Historic Revenue Increase

The International Football Federation FIFA announced on Wednesday morning a record increase in financial revenues destined for the teams participating in the 2026 World Cup, which will reach nearly $871 million, representing a 15% increase from previous editions. This announcement comes just 44 days before the tournament kicks off, hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

In an official statement released after the FIFA Council meeting held on Tuesday evening, the organization specified that this increase will be distributed among the 48 participating teams. The allocations for preparation will increase from $1.5 million to $2.5 million, while qualification bonuses will rise from 9 to 10 million dollars. Additional support totaling over $16 million will also be provided to cover delegation expenses and match tickets.

In this context, Gianni Infantino, FIFA President, stated that the international body is in its best financial position in history, enabling it to support member associations at an unprecedented level and reinvest its resources in the global development of football.

The meeting also saw the adoption of new modifications to the rules of the game, which will be applied during the 2026 World Cup, including: – Issuing a red card to players who leave the field to protest against referee decisions; – Imposing sanctions on players who cover their mouth while speaking during instances of dispute or confrontation; – Clearing yellow cards at the end of the group stage, then again after the quarter-finals.

Additionally, the FIFA Council approved a governance rule change to allow the Afghan refugee team to participate in official competitions, aiming to support teams unable to officially represent their country.

Regarding upcoming competitions, Armenia and Georgia have been selected to host the U20 World Cup in 2029, while the United States, specifically Miami, will host the final phase of the 2027 Women’s Champions Cup.

It was also decided that the U17 World Cup in 2026 will be held in Qatar from November 19 to December 13.

The FIFA also announced the dates for several major competitions, including: – Asia Cup 2027 in Saudi Arabia: January 7 to February 5; – Gold Cup 2027: June 19 to July 11; – Africa Cup of Nations 2027: June 19 to July 17.

On the administrative side, it was agreed that the election for the FIFA presidency for the 2027-2031 term will take place during the 2027 Congress, with the electoral process set to begin on April 30, 2026.

Finally, the Council approved the initiation of consultations to require clubs to field at least one player under the age of 20 or 21 in their starting eleven, in support of young talents.