FIFA Considering Expanding 2030 World Cup to 64 Teams
The Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) is reportedly evaluating a proposal to expand the 2030 World Cup from its planned 48-team format to 64 teams in celebration of the tournament’s 100th anniversary. This idea emerged during a FIFA Council meeting held on March 5, 2025, and has since gained attention. FIFA President Gianni Infantino has shown interest in the proposal, though discussions are still in the early stages. A FIFA spokesperson confirmed that the idea was introduced under the "miscellaneous" section of the meeting agenda, and while no final decision has been made, FIFA is committed to reviewing any suggestion put forth by its council members. If implemented, this expansion would mark the second consecutive increase in the number of participating teams, following the jump from 32 to 48 teams in the 2026 World Cup. The previously approved 48-team format introduced 16 groups of three teams, leading to a total of 80 matches, with the top two from each group advancing to the round of 32. However, increasing the number to 64 teams could lead to further changes in the structure of the tournament.
The 2030 World Cup, already set to be a landmark event, will be hosted across multiple nations, including Morocco, Portugal, and Spain, making it the first World Cup to span three continents. Additionally, centenary matches will be played in Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay, acknowledging the historical significance of the first-ever World Cup, which took place in Uruguay in 1930. If FIFA approves the expansion, it could mean additional qualification spots for more countries, possibly making the tournament even more competitive and globally inclusive. However, such a move may also raise logistical concerns, including scheduling challenges, increased financial requirements for host countries, and potential impacts on player workload. Critics argue that an expanded tournament could dilute the competition's quality, while supporters believe it would enhance global football development by giving more nations the chance to participate on the world’s biggest stage.
FIFA has consistently pushed for changes that increase football’s global reach and financial potential, and this potential expansion aligns with those ambitions. The move to 48 teams for the 2026 tournament was initially met with skepticism but was ultimately approved due to the increased commercial opportunities and the promise of broader participation. If the 2030 expansion is confirmed, it would not only commemorate the World Cup’s 100th anniversary in a grand way but also further cement FIFA’s vision of making the sport more inclusive. However, the decision-making process is still in its early stages, and FIFA is expected to conduct thorough evaluations before reaching a final verdict. As discussions continue, football fans, national federations, and stakeholders will eagerly await further details on whether the tournament’s centenary edition will see yet another historic expansion.
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