FIFA Considers Expanding World Cup Format to 64 Teams for 2030 Edition
FIFA is exploring the possibility of expanding the World Cup format to 64 teams for the 2030 edition, which coincides with the tournament’s centennial celebration. Discussions between FIFA President Gianni Infantino and CONMEBOL President Alejandro Dominguez recently took place in New York City, signaling a potential shift in the tournament structure.
Current Structure and Proposed Changes
The World Cup format was previously expanded from 32 to 48 teams for the upcoming 2026 World Cup, set to take place in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. The proposed 2030 World Cup will be held in Spain, Portugal, and Morocco, with additional matches in Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay to commemorate the first World Cup hosted in 1930. If approved, this expansion could lead to a record 128 matches within a month.
Historical Context and Recent Discussions
The idea of expanding the tournament for the 2030 event was first proposed in March 2025 by a CONMEBOL representative, with Uruguay notably interested as it seeks to be part of this historic celebration. An expanded tournament could guarantee spots for all ten CONMEBOL teams, enhancing representation for South America, where only Venezuela has yet to qualify for a World Cup final.
Dominguez expressed optimism after the meeting, stating, "We believe in a historic 2030 World Cup! Thank you, President Gianni Infantino, for welcoming us and sharing this journey toward the centennial of football’s greatest celebration. We want to call for unity, creativity, and believing big. Because when football is shared by everyone, the celebration is truly global."
Support from National Leaders
Argentina’s Football Association President Claudio "Chiqui" Tapia echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the importance of this meeting in laying a foundation for the event. "It was truly a pleasure to have represented our country at this important meeting. We are family and we have done our part to request this meeting so our dream can become reality," he remarked.
Controversies and Challenges
While expanding the World Cup would allow for broader participation, it does raise questions regarding tournament logistics and scheduling. The feasibility of hosting 128 matches in a month involves significant coordination among host countries, stadium readiness, and travel logistics for teams and fans alike. Critics may argue that such an expansion could dilute the quality of the competition, potentially affecting the integrity of the tournament.
Significance of the Potential Expansion
The proposal to expand to 64 teams for the 2030 World Cup represents a chance to celebrate football’s legacy while promoting inclusivity on a global scale. Additionally, this marks a turning point for FIFA as it navigates modern demands for greater representation in sport.
Overall, as FIFA deliberates on the expansion, the potential implications for both the tournament’s prestige and its financial backdrop remain to be fully understood. The discussions thus far reflect a broader ambition within the organization to modernize its flagship event, aligning it with evolving global football dynamics and fan expectations. The outcome of this proposal could lead to both enhanced competitiveness and a more celebratory atmosphere in what is poised to be a historic event.
