New Delhi, July 19 -- The 2026 Fifa Men's World Cup reaffirmed football's position as the world's biggest international sporting event. Despite initial concerns over the expansion from 32 to 48 teams, the tournament delivered memorable matches, goals, storylines, controversies, strong viewership and robust revenues.

Among sports centred around countries rather than clubs, football remains the financial benchmark.

For India, cricket offers a bright spot. Its global governing body is now financially stronger than those of several other major sports, although expanding the game's global footprint remains a challenge.

One way to gauge the financial strength of a sport is through the revenues of its global governing body or groups at a glob...