FIFA eyes 64-team World Cup expansion for 2030 edition

FIFA is actively exploring a further expansion of the World Cup, proposing a 64-team format for the 2030 tournament. This potential increase follows the recent decision to expand the 2026 World Cup to 48 teams, which will feature 104 matches.

The proposal is driven by FIFA's strategy to enhance the competition's financial and commercial impact. Following the anticipated success of the 2026 World Cup, hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, FIFA aims to solidify the event as the premier global sporting and entertainment spectacle. Projections indicate that the 2026 tournament could generate approximately $9 billion in revenue, a significant increase from the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has publicly supported the expansion concept. He articulated the vision behind the proposal, stating, "The whole world should be allowed to dream of the World Cup, not just Europe and South America." This sentiment underscores FIFA's objective to broaden global participation and appeal.

The potential 64-team format for 2030 is still under consideration, but FIFA views a larger tournament as a key opportunity to boost worldwide engagement and further commercialize the event, which is described as a "gold mine" due to its growing global value.

“

The whole world should be allowed to dream of the World Cup, not just Europe and South America.