How Much Money Did FIFA Make from Hosting the World Cup?

Indonesia's cancellation as host of the U-20 World Cup has sparked widespread public disappointment. This major football event was scheduled for May 20 to June 11, 2023.

The cancellation was announced by FIFA (Fédération Internationale de Football Association). Erick Thohir, Chairman of the Indonesian Football Association (PSSI), had engaged in lobbying efforts on Wednesday, March 29, 2023.

"Following a meeting between FIFA President Gianni Infantino and PSSI President Erick Thohir, FIFA has decided that, due to the current circumstances, to remove Indonesia as the host of the FIFA U-20 World Cup 2023," stated FIFA on its official website, as cited by *Katadata* on Thursday, March 30, 2023.

This decision is believed to be a consequence of opposition from certain groups to the participation of the Israeli national team.

Before removing Indonesia as host, FIFA had already cancelled the group draw, which was to be held in Bali on Friday, March 31, 2023.

Indonesia had invested significant funds in preparations to host the U-20 World Cup, including stadium renovations. These efforts began after Indonesia won the bid to host the event in 2019.

The substantial investment by the host country before the World Cup raises the question: how much revenue does FIFA actually generate from each World Cup?

According to *AlJazeera*, FIFA earned US$7.5 billion, equivalent to Rp112 trillion (using an exchange rate of Rp14,978 per US dollar on March 31, 2023), from the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. This revenue set a new record for World Cup earnings.

The 2018 World Cup in Russia generated US$6.4 billion, or Rp95.85 trillion.

The 2014 World Cup in Brazil generated US$4.8 billion, or Rp71.90 trillion, according to data compiled by Sports Value.

"Since the 2002 World Cup in Asia, this top global football entity has seen its revenue grow significantly, particularly from broadcasting rights and sponsorships," wrote Sports Value in its report.

Below is FIFA's revenue from the 2002-2022 World Cups, compiled by *AlJazeera* and Sports Value. Note that this data includes general World Cup categories.

* Qatar 2022: US$7.5 billion (Rp112 trillion)
* Russia 2018: US$6.4 billion (Rp95.85 trillion)
* Brazil 2014: US$4.8 billion (Rp71.90 trillion)
* South Africa 2010: US$4.2 billion (Rp62.90 trillion)
* Germany 2006: US$2.6 billion (Rp38.94 trillion)
* Korea/Japan 2002: US$1.6 billion (Rp23.96 trillion)

(Also read: Indonesia Cancels Hosting of U-20 World Cup, Here's the Preparatory Budget)