Analysis: FIFA's 64-team World Cup plan may just be an interim step

FIFA's proposal to expand the World Cup to 64 teams is seen as a stepping stone towards an even larger 96-team tournament, mirroring the expansion of the European Championship. FIFA President Gianni Infantino champions this move, suggesting it will motivate more football nations and allow a greater percentage of FIFA's 211 member associations to experience the World Cup. Under a 96-team format, divided into 32 groups of four, 64 teams would advance to the knockout stage, meaning 32 teams would be eliminated after the group phase but could still claim the prestige of participation.

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If 96 countries participate in the World Cup, the same percentage as in the European Championship would be 45.5 percent of FIFA's 211 member associations.

However, the article raises concerns about the potential decline in match quality and the logistical complexities of such a large-scale event. The author sarcastically suggests measures like 3x30 minute matches with "hydration breaks" to accommodate more teams and satisfy TV advertisers, highlighting a perceived focus on commercial gain over sporting integrity. The expansion could also lead to increased player fatigue, with a call for "extra breaks" during matches.

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More and more countries would get to experience the joy of the World Cup. According to FIFA President Gianni Infantino, this would motivate the football world.

Financially, a larger World Cup presents significant opportunities for FIFA and its member nations, even those that do not qualify. The article points to potential revenue streams from tournament naming rights and increased advertising, both on-field and virtual. Logistically, hosting a 96-team World Cup might necessitate concentrating the event in larger countries like the United States or Saudi Arabia, or adopting a multi-host approach similar to the recent European Championship. The author also humorously suggests the use of artificial turf to allow for more matches per day, questioning the traditional view of the World Cup's prestige.

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The most followed players, the superstars, might get a bit tired, but as long as they at least show up on the field, the social media users will get their moments.