FIFA, the central governing body of soccer, is exploring the possibility of expanding the 2030 World Cup to feature 64 teams in a unique one-time arrangement to commemorate the tournament's 100th anniversary. This potential increase follows a submission from Uruguay, one of the tournament's co-hosts, and has piqued the interest of FIFA President Gianni Infantino. The proposed changes arrive as the World Cup is already set to be a sprawling affair, being hosted across three continents for the first time.
FIFA Considers Major Expansion for 2030 World Cup
FIFA Considers Major Expansion for 2030 World Cup
Global soccer’s top body is weighing a historic increase to 64 teams for the next World Cup, a shift requested by Uruguay amid rising complexities in hosting.
In the competitive landscape of global sports, the World Cup stands as the pinnacle event, generating substantial revenues for FIFA. However, it has not been without its controversies, including fierce competition among nations for hosting rights and ongoing allegations of corruption within the organization. The recent award of the 2034 World Cup to Saudi Arabia raised eyebrows amidst criticisms regarding FIFA's governance and transparency.
Infantino has previously expanded the World Cup format, increasing the number of participating teams from 32 to 48 for the upcoming 2026 edition, which will take place primarily in the United States, along with matches in Mexico and Canada. The latest expansion idea was presented during a conference meeting where Uruguay’s Ignacio Alonso, responding to informal discussions, suggested the ambitious move.
As FIFA navigates these discussions, the implications of such a significant change remain to be seen, potentially reshaping the tournament’s future trajectory.
Infantino has previously expanded the World Cup format, increasing the number of participating teams from 32 to 48 for the upcoming 2026 edition, which will take place primarily in the United States, along with matches in Mexico and Canada. The latest expansion idea was presented during a conference meeting where Uruguay’s Ignacio Alonso, responding to informal discussions, suggested the ambitious move.
As FIFA navigates these discussions, the implications of such a significant change remain to be seen, potentially reshaping the tournament’s future trajectory.
