FIFA president Gianni Infantino confirmed to Swiss outlet Bluewin that the governing body will evaluate a bold proposal to expand the 2030 World Cup to 64 national teams. This follows the recent increase from 32 to 48 teams for the 2026 edition, marking yet another potential overhaul of the sport’s premier tournament.

What the 64‑Team Format Entails

The suggested format would add 16 more nations to the competition, raising the total from 48 to 64. With FIFA currently counting 210 member associations, roughly a quarter could qualify under the new system. Historically, the World Cup featured 32 teams from 1998 through 2022, before the 2026 expansion. If approved, the 2030 tournament would become the largest in its 93‑year history.

Supporters vs. Critics

Advocates claim the expansion democratizes the sport, allowing more African, Asian and Middle‑Eastern countries to compete on the global stage. Infantino emphasized, “The World Cup is for the whole world, not just Europe and South America.” Conversely, UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin and CONCACAF chief Victor Montagliani have labeled the idea a “bad” or “not great” concept, fearing that a larger field could lower qualification standards and lead to uneven matchups.

Host Nations and Logistical Considerations

The 2030 World Cup will be co‑hosted by six nations across three continents: Uruguay, Argentina and Paraguay will each stage one match, while Morocco, Portugal and Spain will host the majority of games. Adding 16 more teams will amplify travel, scheduling and infrastructure demands, but it also promises a richer cultural tapestry and broader fan engagement.

Next Steps

No final decision has been taken yet. Infantino’s affirmation, however, places the 64‑team concept firmly on FIFA’s agenda. Should the committees endorse the plan, the 2030 edition will not only rewrite record books but also reshape the global football hierarchy, offering smaller nations a realistic shot at the sport’s most coveted prize.