The International Cricket Council has confirmed a significant 10% increase in the total prize money for the upcoming Women's T20 World Cup 2026, scheduled to take place in England and Wales. The winning team will receive $2.34 million, while the runners-up will take home $1.17 million. Notably, all participating teams are guaranteed a minimum of $247,500, more than double the amount from the previous edition.
With just 60 days to go before the tournament commences, England is set to face off against Sri Lanka at Edgbaston, aiming to replicate the success of the Lionesses and Red Roses with a win on home soil. ICC CEO Sanjog Gupta stated, 'The growth of women's cricket is accelerating rapidly, and the expansion of the ICC Women's T20 World Cup to 12 teams, combined with a record-breaking prize pool, demonstrates our commitment to building a stronger, more competitive global game.' The tournament is expected to set new attendance and viewing records, leaving a lasting impact on the global socio-cultural landscape. While the winners' and runners-up prize money remains unchanged from 2024, there was a substantial 134% increase in prize money for the top two teams compared to 2023. The total prize pot for the tournament has grown to $8,765 million, with the 33-match event scheduled to take place across 24 days in seven venues.
Tournament director Beth Barrett-Wild noted, 'The ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026 is poised to be a landmark moment for the game, with record-breaking ticket demand and the largest-ever prize pot for a global women's T20 competition.' The trophy tour will kick off at Lord's Cricket Ground before traveling to qualified European nations and hosting cities, building excitement ahead of the first ball on June 12.