CONMEBOL President Alejandro Domínguez guarantees that 'a 62-country World Cup will be even better'

Alejandro Domínguez, president of CONMEBOL, declared the 2026 World Cup a success, despite divided opinions on the expanded 48-team format. He expressed confidence that a future World Cup with 62 participating nations would be an even greater achievement.

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What we can say is that it is a success to have a 48-team World Cup, which makes me confirm that a 62-team World Cup will be even better.

"What we can say is that it is a success to have a 48-team World Cup, which makes me confirm that a 62-team World Cup will be even better," Domínguez stated at Miami Stadium. While no official plans for further expansion have been announced, Domínguez's comments indicate CONMEBOL's support for such a move, aligning with FIFA President Gianni Infantino's potential considerations.

Domínguez also pointed to the remarkable performance of South American teams as a significant success story of the tournament. "The surprise is that six South Americans came and five are still in the fight, that's the big surprise for the world," he remarked. He reiterated his long-held belief that increasing the number of South American teams enhances the World Cup's overall level and expressed his hope for the trophy to remain on the continent.

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The surprise is that six South Americans came and five are still in the fight, that's the big surprise for the world.

While acknowledging Argentina's strong form as defending champions and Brazil's status as a powerhouse, Domínguez lamented Uruguay's elimination. He urged continued support for the remaining five South American nations competing in the knockout stages, emphasizing the importance of believing in their potential to win the coveted title.

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I always maintained and maintain that the more South American teams, the better the level of the World Cup. I have no doubt, I keep dreaming that the cup stays at home.