FIFA chief Infantino does not rule out expanding World Cup to 64 teams

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has not ruled out the possibility of further expanding the World Cup, suggesting that the tournament could eventually feature 64 teams. Infantino stated that such expansion is a topic that "definitely" should be considered after the current tournament concludes. Speaking to Swiss portal "blue Sport," Infantino emphasized his belief that "the whole world must be allowed to dream" of participating in the World Cup, not just nations from Europe and South America. He views the current 48-team format, implemented for the tournament in the USA, Mexico, and Canada, as a "huge success." Infantino pointed to the generally high quality of play across all teams in the expanded tournament. He believes that a larger field of participants provides a significant opportunity and incentive for smaller nations to qualify and compete on the world stage. The current format, increased from 32 teams, includes a Round of 32 for the first time and features a record 104 matches. While the FIFA president sees benefits in expansion, the idea of a 64-team World Cup would represent another significant increase in the tournament's scale and schedule.

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the whole world must be allowed to dream