FIFA considers expanding 2030 World Cup to 64 teams

The International Association Football Federation (FIFA) has reopened discussions regarding the possibility of expanding the number of participating teams in the 2030 World Cup to 64, despite the upcoming 2026 edition being the first to feature 48 teams.

According to the Spanish newspaper AS, the proposal has returned to the discussion table within FIFA, supported by certain continental confederations. The idea initially surfaced in recent months as an initiative from the South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL).

FIFA officials view this step as an opportunity to broaden global participation and allow new national teams to appear in the largest international football tournament. This aligns with FIFA President Gianni Infantino’s approach to promoting inclusivity in football.

The newspaper noted that the 2026 World Cup, hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, is expected to feature teams not accustomed to appearing in the tournament, such as Cape Verde, Curaçao, Jordan, and Uzbekistan. This development has amplified calls for further future expansion.

The current organizational framework for the 2030 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by Morocco, Spain, and Portugal, is still based on a 48-team format. However, FIFA has not yet entered the detailed organizational phase and is waiting for the conclusion of the 2026 edition.

The report also highlighted ongoing uncertainty regarding some of the Spanish cities nominated to host World Cup matches. Malaga has exited the selection race, while FIFA continues to evaluate the dossiers of other cities before making a final decision.

AS concluded its report by emphasizing that the concept of a 64-team World Cup is no longer ruled out. Instead, it has transitioned into a viable project under discussion within global football decision-making circles.