Ten side hustles that could see you score big in the 2026 FIFA World Cup

The countdown is on. In just over a week, the 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off when Mexico take on South Africa in the tournament opener on 11 June.

The competition will feature 48 teams and 104 matches, culminating in the final at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on 19 July. England and Scotland will both be hoping to make deep runs, giving football fans plenty to cheer about over the coming weeks.

But while millions of supporters will be focused on goals, glory and VAR controversies, some savvy Brits will be looking at the tournament through a different lens, as an opportunity to make a bit of extra cash.

Major sporting events create spikes in spending, social gatherings and online engagement. With a little creativity and entrepreneurial spirit, there are plenty of ways to cash in on World Cup fever.

We've done the legwork for you. Here are ten side hustles that could help you score big during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Create football content online

If you're the friend who's always predicting scorelines, dissecting tactics or moaning about the manager's team selection, why not turn that passion into content?

From match previews to fan reactions and tournament explainers, football content tends to perform well during major competitions. Platforms such as TikTok, YouTube, Instagram and Substack offer plenty of ways to build an audience.

Make enough noise and you could generate income through advertising revenue, sponsorship deals, affiliate marketing or even merchandise sales.

Sell football-themed food and treats

Big football matches mean big appetites.

If you're handy in the kitchen, consider creating World Cup-themed snacks, cupcakes, grazing boxes or takeaway platters. England-themed cupcakes, football-shaped biscuits and match-night snack boxes could all prove popular for viewing parties.

Friends, family and local community groups can be great places to find your first customers.

Just don't be surprised if demand spikes every time England make it through another round.

Dig out and sell old football shirts

That dusty shirt at the back of your wardrobe could be worth more than you think.

Interest in football memorabilia typically surges around major tournaments, particularly for vintage shirts and retro kits. Collectors are often willing to pay decent money for classic designs from years gone by.

If you've got old England shirts, club kits or football jackets gathering dust, now could be the perfect time to cash in.

The more retro and unusual, the better.

Become a match-day photographer or content creator

Local pubs, fan zones, grassroots clubs and sports bars often need fresh content during major tournaments.

If you've got a decent camera, or even a good smartphone and an eye for social media, offer your services capturing match-day atmospheres, fan celebrations and event highlights.

Businesses are always looking for engaging content, and the World Cup provides plenty of opportunities to create it.

Rent out your equipment

Not everyone owns a projector, giant outdoor screen or powerful speaker system.

If you do, the World Cup could be your chance to earn money from it.

Projectors, garden seating, gazebos, speakers, barbecue equipment and outdoor heaters are all in demand for watch parties. Listing items on rental platforms or local community groups can bring in extra income with relatively little effort.

Run football camps and mini tournaments

World Cups have a habit of inspiring the next generation of footballers.

Parents often look for football-related activities during the summer, making coaching sessions, mini tournaments and football camps a potentially lucrative side hustle.

If you have coaching experience, a local pitch and the necessary safeguarding requirements, there's a good opportunity to tap into tournament excitement.

Organise World Cup sweepstakes

Office sweepstakes are a football tradition.

While you can't run gambling operations without the appropriate permissions, you can sell professionally designed sweepstake packs, printable tournament wall charts or digital competition templates for workplaces, schools and friendship groups.

Start a football-themed print-on-demand store

World Cups generate endless jokes, memes and football culture moments.

Print-on-demand services allow you to create T-shirts, mugs, posters and other merchandise without holding stock. As long as you avoid copyrighted logos and official tournament branding, there are plenty of opportunities to create products inspired by football fandom.

Offer travel-planning help for fans heading to North America

With the tournament spread across the United States, Canada and Mexico, many supporters face a logistical challenge.

If you're good at finding flight deals, comparing accommodation or planning itineraries, consider creating guides, newsletters or travel-planning services for fans making the trip.

There may also be opportunities to earn affiliate commissions through hotel and travel bookings.

Host watch parties and football nights

Not everyone wants to watch matches alone on the sofa.

Community centres, pubs, clubs and even private gardens can become hubs for football fans during the tournament. If you have access to a suitable venue, consider organising viewing events complete with food, drinks and competitions.

Even a modest ticket fee can add up over the course of a month-long tournament.

Just make sure you have the appropriate permissions and licences where required.

The World Cup only comes around every four years, and when football fever grips the nation, spending tends to follow. While none of these ideas are guaranteed to make you rich, they could help bring in some extra cash while enjoying the biggest sporting show on the planet.

And if England or Scotland make it to the final, business could be booming by July.