• Loading stock data...
Sunday, March 1, 2026

Qatar World Cup Fans Spent Almost 40% More Than in 2018

  • Fans from the U.S., Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Mexico, and the U.K. spent the most money.
  • Its iconic final generated the most spending of any game.
French fans cheering in the stands at the World Cup
Yukihito Taguchi-USA TODAY Sports

The unforgettable 2022 FIFA World Cup was a hit among viewers across the world — and the cash spent at its host stadiums suggests that it resonated with fans as well. 

Argentina’s win over France after a 3-3 draw that went to penalty kicks was the end to a month-long tournament that saw fans spend more cash than the last edition of the World Cup.

  • Fans spent 39% more on in-stadium purchases than the 2018 World Cup in Russia, according to data from Visa — the tournament’s official payment provider.
  • Only Visa-branded cards were accepted for in-stadium purchases during the tournament across its eight stadiums in Qatar.
  • Fans from the U.S., Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Mexico, and the U.K. spent the most money at the World Cup.
  • The iconic final generated the most spending of any game. 

FIFA stands to see more spending at the 2026 World Cup as it will expand from 32 teams to 48. 

The spending has already resulted in favorable results for soccer’s governing body. FIFA reported $7.5 billion in revenue for the 2019-22 commercial cycle — $1 billion more than it budgeted. The governing body projects to earn $11 billion for the 2023-26 commercial cycle.

Large replica of World Cup trophy inside of stadium in Qatar

FIFA Expects $11B Over Next Four-Year Cycle

FIFA reported $7.5 billion in revenue for the 2019-22 cycle.
December 16, 2022

Fans at Home Spending, Too

The World Cup final generated 7.9 million geolocation transactions — making it the second most wagered-on on sports final in 2022 behind only Super Bowl LVI, according to GeoComply.

Linkedin
Whatsapp
Copy Link
Link Copied
Link Copied

What to Read

Greg Norman

LIV’s Post-Greg Norman Shakeup Continues

Two executives have assumed roles held by Norman and another former official.
Kristi Noem

DHS Shutdown Is Blocking Hundreds of Millions From World Cup

The money was earmarked in Trump’s Big Beautiful Bill last year.

FIFA Backs Mexico With World Cup Playoffs Weeks Away

Guadalajara hosts two playoff games in March, plus four World Cup matches.

Featured Today

Dec 25, 2025; Denver, Colorado, USA; Denver Nuggets forward Spencer Jones (21) reacts against the Minnesota Timberwolves during the second half at Ball Arena.

Young Athletes Have Entered Their LinkedIn Era

Athletes can’t play forever. Some are laying the groundwork for Act 2.
[Subscription Customers Only] Jun 15, 2025; Seattle, Washington, USA; Botafogo owner John Textor inside the stadium before the match during a group stage match of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup at Lumen Field.
February 27, 2026

The American Sports Owners Feuding Over a French Soccer Team

John Textor is at odds with Michele Kang and investment giant Ares.
[Subscription Customers Only] Jul 13, 2025; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; Chelsea FC midfielder Cole Palmer (10) celebrates winning the final of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup at MetLife Stadium
February 21, 2026

Soccer’s ‘Crown Jewels’ Are Devouring Smaller Clubs

Mega conglomerates are feeding a big business machine. Fans are furious.
Feb 10, 2026; Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy; Cory Thiesse and Korey Dropkin of the United States during the curling mixed doubles gold medal game during the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games at Cortina Curling Olympic Stadium
February 20, 2026

Curling Clubs Are Swept Up in Olympics Fever. Can It Last?

Every four years, organizations field an influx of curling-curious patrons.
exclusive

Mike Repole and Tom Brady’s NoBull Gets $1B Valuation

NoBull raised $50 million, signed Livvy Dunne, and plans a nutrition division.
Bobbleheads are seen at Vintage Indy Sports, Tuesday, April 29, 2025 in Speedway. The local sports memorabilia store opened recently.
July 12, 2025

Baseball’s Bobbleheads Are the Center of the Collectibles Universe

Baseball’s most important keepsake drives long lines—and big business.
Sponsored

20 Years of Coastal Cool: How Johnnie-O Became a Force in Golf,..

A style movement powering one of the fastest-growing brands in sports and lifestyle.
Sponsored

From USWNT Star to NWSL Franchise Founder

Leslie Osborne, former USWNT midfielder, shares how athletes are moving from the pitch to the ownership table.
AA Mint Cards
May 18, 2025

Young Collectors Are on a High-Stakes Chase for Ultra-Rare Trading Cards

“They just want that excitement of the chase,” says a 23-year-old collector.
March 11, 2025

Dick’s Faces Investor Concerns Over Tariffs Despite Record Quarter

The prominent retailer offers an uncertain outlook due to economic challenges.
Feb 3, 2025; New Orleans, LA, USA; Super Bowl LIX signage at the Hyatt Hotel.
February 4, 2025

New Orleans Home Rentals Skyrocket Around Super Bowl

Short-term rental revenue has already reached $10.5 million.
January 20, 2024; Santa Clara, CA, USA; Kristin Juszczyk, wife of San Francisco 49ers fullback Kyle Juszczyk (44), before a 2024 NFC divisional round game against the Green Bay Packers at Levi's Stadium.
February 1, 2025

The New WAGs: Sports Wives Building Business Empires

Athletes’ wives and girlfriends are bucking stereotypes and cashing in.