Spain defeated Argentina 1-0 after extra time to win the 2026 FIFA World Cup, but the tournament's biggest winner may be FIFA itself. According to CNBC, world football's governing body expects to generate more than $9 billion in revenue from the expanded competition, making it the most lucrative sporting event in history.
The report said the new 48-team format increased the tournament from 64 to 104 matches, creating more broadcasting rights, ticket sales and commercial sponsorship opportunities.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has already suggested examining a further expansion to 64 teams for the 2030 tournament. According to CNBC, FIFA also plans to distribute $2.7 billion through its development program between 2027 and 2030.
The report added that President Donald Trump maintained close ties with Infantino during the tournament, drawing public attention to their relationship.
Related Tweet:
This year's World Cup was the most lucrative sporting event in history.
— CNBC (@CNBC) July 20, 2026
FIFA was always certain to emerge as the financial victor of the tournament; it's poised to net over $9 billion in revenue for 2026, according to its own estimates.
And the 2030 FIFA World Cup is poised to… pic.twitter.com/QLmM2MyvNF
FIFA emerges as the $9 billion winner as the biggest, brashest World Cup ever draws to a close https://t.co/cMpx46g2VK
— CNBC (@CNBC) July 20, 2026
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