How much could Uzbekistan earn from the 2026 FIFA World Cup?

The Uzbekistan national football team, having qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, stands to receive at least \$1.5 million in preparation funding. Based on financial data from the 2022 World Cup held in Qatar, QALAMPIR.UZ has analyzed the potential earnings Uzbekistan could generate from its participation in the upcoming tournament.

In 2022, FIFA allocated a total prize fund of \$440 million. Each participating team received \$1.5 million for preparation and \$9 million for playing in the group stage, totaling \$10.5 million per team regardless of their performance beyond the first round.

If Uzbekistan advances beyond the group stage in 2026 and reaches the round of 16, the team would earn \$13 million. Reaching the quarterfinals would raise that amount to \$17 million.

Further stages promise even larger rewards:

- Fourth place – \$25 million
- Third place – \$27 million
- Runner-up – \$30 million
- Champion – \$42 million

Thus, if Uzbekistan were to win the tournament, the total prize would amount to \$42 million.

It’s worth noting that these funds primarily come from ticket sales, broadcasting rights, advertising deals, and other commercial revenues. Over the years, income from these sources has steadily grown. For instance, the 2022 tournament winner received \$42 million—\$4 million more than France earned for winning in 2018.

The total prize pool has also grown over the decades. In 1982, just \$20 million was distributed among 24 teams. By 2022, that figure had increased more than twentyfold.

In addition to FIFA’s prize money, national teams can secure deals with global sponsors and commercial partners during the World Cup, adding to their financial gain. These earnings also support the country’s Football Association and raise the nation’s international profile.

For context, the Uzbekistan national team will play against Qatar on June 10 in its final World Cup qualifying match. Following the game, an award ceremony will take place at Bunyodkor Stadium, where players and coaches will be presented with BYD cars in recognition of their historic achievement.