GFA to receive $2.5m for World Cup preparation, $10m for qualification

The Ghana Football Association (GFA) is set to receive $2.5 million from FIFA to support preparations for the 2026 World Cup, following an increase in funding for participating teams. The amount represents a $1 million rise from the previous $1.5 million given as preparation support. In addition, Ghana will earn $10 million for qualifying for the tournament, up from the $9 million awarded in the last edition. The decision forms part of a broader financial expansion by FIFA, which will distribute nearly $900 million to teams competing in the 2026 tournament. The total prize pool has been set at $871 million after approval by the FIFA Council during a meeting in Vancouver ahead of the 76th FIFA Congress. Each of the 48 participating nations will benefit from the increased preparation funding, while additional financial support will cover team logistics, including travel and delegation costs, as well as enhanced ticket allocations valued at over $16 million. FIFA President Gianni Infantino said the organization’s strong financial position has made it possible to significantly boost support to member associations. He noted that the increased funding demonstrates FIFA’s commitment to reinvesting revenue back into the development of the game worldwide. The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be the first to feature 48 teams, an expansion from the traditional 32-team format. The tournament will be hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. While the expanded format promises greater commercial returns through sponsorships, broadcasting, and ticket sales, it has also raised concerns among some associations, particularly in Europe, over the high operational costs involved. UEFA has indicated that some teams may struggle to break even unless they progress deep into the competition. Despite these concerns, FIFA maintains that the increased financial distribution will help ease the burden on participating nations and ensure a successful staging of what is expected to be the largest and most lucrative World Cup in history.