Zurich: The FIFA Council convened ahead of the 76th FIFA Congress in Vancouver—a host city for the FIFA World Cup 2026—with just 44 days remaining until kick-off, announcing a series of key decisions shaping the future of international football.
In light of the tournament’s strong commercial performance, the Council approved a 15% increase in financial distribution to all 48 participating teams, bringing the total allocation to USD 871 million. Preparation funding will rise from USD 1.5 million to USD 2.5 million per team, while qualification payments will increase from USD 9 million to USD 10 million. Additional support exceeding USD 16 million will cover delegation costs and enhanced ticket allocations.
The remaining revenues will continue to be reinvested across global football through FIFA’s 211 Member Associations. Gianni Infantino highlighted FIFA’s strong financial position, noting that increased revenues are being channelled back into developing the game worldwide.
In a landmark move, the Council also approved amendments to governance regulations allowing the Afghan Women’s Refugee Team to compete in official FIFA competitions. The decision builds on the team’s debut at the FIFA Unites – Women’s Series 2025 and aims to create pathways for teams unable to formally represent a member association.
Regulatory updates for the 2026 World Cup were also confirmed. Single yellow cards will now be reset after the group stage and again following the quarter-finals, reflecting the expanded tournament structure. Additionally, FIFA approved the implementation of new disciplinary measures introduced by The IFAB, targeting players who leave the field in protest or cover their mouths during confrontations.
Looking ahead, the Council appointed Armenia and Georgia as co-hosts of the FIFA U-20 World Cup 2029. Meanwhile, the United States—with Miami specifically—will host the final stage of the FIFA Women’s Champions Cup 2027 from January 27 to 31, with official competition regulations also approved.
The Council further confirmed that the FIFA U-17 World Cup 2026 in Qatar will take place from November 19 to December 13.
Key dates were also added to the Men’s International Match Calendar, including the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027 (January 7–February 5), the Concacaf Gold Cup 2027 (June 19–July 11), and the CAF Africa Cup of Nations 2027 (June 19–July 17).
In governance matters, FIFA confirmed that its presidential election for the 2027–2031 term will be held during the 77th FIFA Congress in 2027, with the electoral process beginning on April 30, 2026.
Finally, the Council unanimously approved the launch of a consultation process on a proposed regulation requiring senior club teams to field at least one homegrown U-20 or U-21 player at all times, with a formal proposal expected next year.
