Gold Whistle: How Much World Cup Referees Will Earn

The highest payments ever: the match officials at USA 2026 are set to receive a surprising sum.

World Cup 2026 will be the largest tournament ever staged in the history of the competition. With 104 matches across three host countries, FIFA stands to generate significant revenue, but another group that will benefit from the expanded tournament is the officiating teams, since more activity means more money. The Times reported today, Monday, that referees are expected to receive the highest payments ever awarded.

The senior officials who reach the decisive stages of the competition could earn more than $100,000, twice as much as the whistle-blowers earned at the 2014 World Cup. The compensation will not be the same for all referees. According to the report, FIFA is expected to grant additional bonuses to referees selected to officiate matches in the later stages of the tournament, including the semifinals and the final.

This means that only those who win the trust of FIFA's refereeing committee will officiate in the later stages, since assignments will be determined according to referees' rankings in the group stage and only shortly before each match. Michael Oliver and Anthony Taylor are considered the leading candidates to reach the final stretch.

In April, FIFA published the list of officials selected for the 2026 World Cup. The squad includes 52 main referees, 88 assistant referees and 30 VAR officials from all six confederations and 50 different associations around the world. This is the largest and most comprehensive refereeing lineup ever chosen for a World Cup.

As a reminder, VAR officials will receive broader powers. They will be able to review fouls committed before a set piece and correct incorrect decisions on corners that are awarded. In addition, new procedures will take effect regarding substitutions and medical treatment on the pitch, in an effort to reduce wasted time and increase playing time.