By Issah Olegor
Morocco’s remarkable journey at the 2026 FIFA World Cup continues to make history both on and off the pitch, with the Atlas Lions securing a place in the quarter-finals while earning a record financial reward from FIFA.
The North African giants booked their place among the tournament’s last eight after an emphatic 3-0 victory over Canada in Houston, extending an impressive campaign that has established them as one of the standout teams of the expanded 48-nation World Cup.
Their latest triumph has also guaranteed Morocco a total of $31.5 million in FIFA prize money, making it one of the most financially rewarding campaigns in the country’s football history.
The earnings comprise $19 million awarded for reaching the quarter-finals, in addition to FIFA’s $10 million participation payment and $2.5 million allocated to every qualified nation for tournament preparation.
Morocco’s financial reward could increase significantly should the Atlas Lions continue their historic run.
A fourth-place finish would see their overall earnings rise to $39.5 million, while finishing third would increase the total to $41.5 million.
Should Morocco reach the World Cup final but fall short, they would receive $45.5 million, while lifting the FIFA World Cup trophy would earn the Atlas Lions a record $62.5 million in combined payments.
The team’s success reflects the continued rise of Moroccan football on the international stage.
Having become the first African nation to reach a FIFA World Cup semi-final at the 2022 tournament in Qatar, Morocco arrived at the 2026 finals carrying high expectations and has once again demonstrated its quality against some of the world’s best teams.
Their commanding victory over Canada highlighted the confidence, discipline and attacking quality that have characterised their campaign.
Attention now turns to one of the biggest matches in Morocco’s football history as they prepare to face France in a blockbuster quarter-final in Boston next Thursday.
The encounter will rekindle memories of the two nations’ memorable semi-final meeting at the 2022 FIFA World Cup, with Morocco hoping to go one step further this time by securing a place in the last four.
Victory over France would not only move the Atlas Lions closer to an unprecedented World Cup triumph but would also substantially increase their FIFA prize earnings.
Beyond the financial rewards, Morocco’s continued progress has become a source of immense pride across Africa and the Arab world, with the Atlas Lions carrying the hopes of millions as they continue their pursuit of football’s greatest prize.
