2026 FIFA World Cup semifinals set stage for record prize money and global viewership

The semifinals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup feature France versus Spain and Argentina versus England, with the final scheduled for the New York/New Jersey Stadium. The four semifinalists are each guaranteed at least US$ 37.5 million in prize money, a sum that exceeds Brazil’s total earnings after its elimination in the round of 16.

Penalty conversion in the tournament has fallen to a historic low, with only 65 % of kicks scoring – the poorest rate since records began in 1966. Meanwhile, the event is driving commercial activity: premium hospitality packages for the final range from US$ 9,500 to US$ 34,500, and organizers compare the final’s business impact to that of a Super Bowl.

In Brazil, SBT’s sports programming has been reshuffled to air a World Cup match, and SBT Sports’ audience in Greater São Paulo rose 10 % during the tournament. A separate analysis listed the ten biggest controversies of the competition, from VAR decisions to a new FIFA peace award.

Overall, the tournament is generating high viewership, significant economic stakes, and widespread media coverage across the host nations and participating countries.