FIFA Weighs Historic Expansion of 2030 World Cup to 64 Teams

FIFA is set to consider a proposal to expand the 2030 FIFA World Cup to 64 teams, a move that could mark the largest tournament in the competition’s history and significantly increase global participation.

The proposal will be reviewed by FIFA’s committees following the current tournament, as world football’s governing body continues to explore ways of broadening access to the sport’s premier event.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has indicated that a larger competition could provide more nations with the opportunity to compete on football’s biggest stage, building on what the organisation regards as the successful introduction of the 48-team format.

The 2030 World Cup will be jointly hosted by Morocco, Portugal and Spain, while Uruguay, Argentina and Paraguay will stage opening matches as part of celebrations marking the tournament’s centenary.

Should the proposal receive approval, the expanded format could also allow the three South American nations to host full group-stage matches rather than a single opening fixture each, further enhancing their role in the landmark tournament.

The proposal signals FIFA’s continued drive to increase global representation and expand the reach of the world’s most watched sporting event.

By Witness A Phiri