The World Cup could be set for a significant change, as FIFA reviews a proposal to expand the 2030 tournament from 48 to 64 teams.
The potential expansion is part of the plan to celebrate the centenary of the competition. FIFA has confirmed that it will assess the proposal’s financial, political, and sporting implications.
Shock Proposal for a 64-Team Tournament
The 2030 World Cup is already shaping up to be historic. Spain, Portugal, and Morocco will host the majority of the matches, while Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay – where the first World Cup was held in 1930 – will each host one game.
However, the tournament could get even bigger if FIFA decides to go ahead with the expansion.
According to reports from The New York Times, the idea was introduced by Uruguayan FIFA Council member Ignacio Alonso during a meeting on March 5th. His proposal reportedly left other attendees in “stunned silence,” as FIFA had only recently expanded the tournament from 32 to 48 teams for the 2026 edition, set to be hosted by the U.S., Mexico, and Canada.
A FIFA spokesperson confirmed the discussion, stating, “A proposal to analyse a 64-team FIFA World Cup to celebrate the centenary of the FIFA World Cup in 2030 was spontaneously raised by a FIFA Council member.”
Financial and Political Factors at Play
FIFA President Gianni Infantino acknowledged the proposal and agreed it should be evaluated further.
While a 64-team World Cup would give more countries a chance to compete on football’s biggest stage, FIFA’s decision is likely to be influenced by financial and political considerations, as much as sporting ones.
As noted by The New York Times, FIFA would consider the potential financial and political benefits, alongside the sporting aspects, when determining whether to move forward with the expansion. With FIFA’s revenue heavily dependent on broadcasting rights, sponsorships, and ticket sales, a 64-team format could open up further financial opportunities.
However, logistical concerns, including additional matches, host city accommodations, and scheduling challenges, would also need to be carefully evaluated.
