FIFA Considers 64-Team Expansion for 2030 World Cup

FIFA President Gianni Infantino revealed that the organization is considering expanding the 2030 World Cup to include 64 teams. This potential expansion follows the successful introduction of a 48-team format for the 2026 World Cup.

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This idea (of increasing the number of participants) will be considered after the current World Cup ends. When organizing a tournament, it's important to consider not only Europe and South America, but the entire world.

Infantino stated that the idea will be considered after the current World Cup concludes. He emphasized that organizing the tournament should consider the entire world, not just Europe and South America, giving more countries the opportunity to realize their World Cup dreams.

The 2026 World Cup marks the first time the tournament will feature 48 teams. This expanded format includes a new system where the best third-place teams from the group stage can advance to the knockout rounds. Infantino believes this expansion has already positively impacted global football development.

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This tournament, featuring 48 national teams, has proven to be very successful. All teams demonstrated a high level of play.

"This tournament, featuring 48 national teams, has proven to be very successful. All teams demonstrated a high level of play," Infantino said. He pointed to the success of teams from various confederations, with nine out of ten African teams reaching the knockout stage, as proof that expanding participation benefits global football.

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Teams from every continent scored goals and earned at least one point. Nine out of ten African teams reached the knockout stage. This once again demonstrates the importance of giving every team a chance.