FIFA president Infantino says World Cup could expand to 64 teams for 2030

FIFA president Gianni Infantino confirmed that the governing body will examine a proposal to enlarge the men’s World Cup from the current 48‑team format to 64 teams for the centennial 2030 tournament. The issue will be debated by FIFA committees after the conclusion of the 2026 World Cup, which is being staged by the United States, Mexico and Canada. The expansion plan is backed by CONMEBOL and aims to increase global inclusion, allowing more nations from Africa, Asia and the Americas to qualify. Infantino argued that “every nation should be able to dream of participating” and said the 48‑team edition in 2026 was a “100 percent success.” The 2030 tournament will be co‑hosted by Spain, Portugal and Morocco, with opening matches scheduled in Uruguay, Argentina and Paraguay. If approved, the format could involve 16 groups of four, raising the total matches to about 128 and generating higher broadcasting and sponsorship revenues, while also sparking criticism from UEFA officials who warn about possible dilution of quality.