FIFA President Gianni Infantino has raised the possibility of expanding the World Cup to 64 teams before the 2030 tournament. The proposal would mark a further increase from the 48-team format debuting in 2026.
Speaking to Swiss outlet Bluewin, Infantino said increasing the competition from 48 to 64 sides “could make sense”. He indicated that officials will “definitely” examine and discuss the matter in relevant committees once the 2026 finals conclude.
Rapid Format Growth
The World Cup featured 32 teams from 1998 through 2022. The 2026 edition in the United States, Canada and Mexico will introduce a 48-team structure comprising 104 matches. Infantino described the expanded format as a “huge success” ahead of its full implementation.
Global Representation and African Progress
Infantino emphasized the importance of giving smaller footballing nations access to the finals. He noted that sides from all continents found the net and collected points during recent competitions, demonstrating rising standards worldwide.
He specifically highlighted African performance, stating that nine of the ten African sides advanced to the knockout rounds in the most recent tournament, compared to just five at the previous edition. Infantino argued that without World Cup participation, smaller countries lack incentives to develop their programmes.
2030 Multi-Continent Arrangement
The 2030 World Cup will mark the competition’s centenary with a unique hosting model. Uruguay, Argentina and Paraguay will each stage one of the first three matches. The remainder of the tournament will take place in Morocco, Portugal and Spain.
An expansion to 64 teams could alter this structure. Rather than hosting single ceremonial matches, the South American nations might each accommodate a four-team group.
Next Steps
Any format changes would require formal approval following the 2026 World Cup. Infantino stressed that organisers must cater to the “whole world – not just Europe and South America”.