Nigeria misses out on at least $10.5m as FIFA confirms record World Cup prize money
Nigeria’s failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup has cost the country a minimum of USD 10.5 million, following FIFA’s announcement of a record USD 655 million prize money pool for the tournament.
FIFA confirmed that each of the 48 teams participating in the expanded World Cup in North America will receive USD 1.5 million in preparation funds, in addition to a minimum participation payout of USD 9 million for teams finishing between 33rd and 48th place. This guarantees every qualified nation at least USD 10.5 million.
Nigeria’s absence means the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) will receive none of these funds, delivering a significant financial blow at a time when many African federations depend heavily on FIFA competitions to support national team programmes, grassroots development, and administrative costs.
The financial loss could have been far greater. Teams reaching the Round of 16 will earn USD 15 million, quarter-finalists USD 19 million, the champions USD 50 million, and the runners-up USD 33 million.
Beyond prize money, World Cup participation drives commercial revenue through sponsorships, broadcast exposure, and merchandise sales, while also enhancing a federation’s negotiating power. Nigeria, a three-time African champion and one of Africa’s most marketable football nations, will miss the global visibility that comes with competing on football’s biggest stage.
The setback also affects youth and grassroots programmes. FIFA President Gianni Infantino has emphasised that World Cup revenues are reinvested into football worldwide, including new U-15 festival-style tournaments for boys and girls starting in 2026. Federations in the tournament are better positioned to benefit from such initiatives.
