FIFA's potential plan for a 64-team World Cup could reshape future tournaments, sparking conversations around logistics and governance.
**FIFA Eyes 64-Team World Cup for Historic 2030 Event**
**FIFA Eyes 64-Team World Cup for Historic 2030 Event**
Soccer's global authority contemplates a bold expansion of the World Cup as part of its 100th anniversary celebrations.
In an unprecedented move, FIFA officials are considering a proposal to expand the upcoming 2030 World Cup to include 64 teams, as the tournament nears its centennial celebration. This ambitious idea surfaced during discussions among key delegates, notably inspired by insights from Ignacio Alonso of Uruguay. The proposal aims to honor the historical significance of the World Cup, which has evolved significantly since its inception.
Currently, the 2026 edition is set to feature 48 teams and will take place across the United States, Mexico, and Canada. However, the notion of the 2030 tournament being played under a 64-team format raises essential questions surrounding tournament logistics, organization, and potential ramifications on the game's integrity. FIFA's president, Gianni Infantino, has already received considerable attention for the earlier expansion and faces criticism for several decisions, including the controversial awarding of the next World Cup to Saudi Arabia.
The allure of enhancing the World Cup's scope comes alongside the undeniable fact that the event stands as the most lucrative sports tournament globally, drawing in billions of viewers and revenue. As FIFA navigates past concerns about governance and transparency related to its hosting decisions, the 2030 World Cup could serve as a pivotal moment for the organization, redefining how the competition engages both global audiences and participating nations.
Currently, the 2026 edition is set to feature 48 teams and will take place across the United States, Mexico, and Canada. However, the notion of the 2030 tournament being played under a 64-team format raises essential questions surrounding tournament logistics, organization, and potential ramifications on the game's integrity. FIFA's president, Gianni Infantino, has already received considerable attention for the earlier expansion and faces criticism for several decisions, including the controversial awarding of the next World Cup to Saudi Arabia.
The allure of enhancing the World Cup's scope comes alongside the undeniable fact that the event stands as the most lucrative sports tournament globally, drawing in billions of viewers and revenue. As FIFA navigates past concerns about governance and transparency related to its hosting decisions, the 2030 World Cup could serve as a pivotal moment for the organization, redefining how the competition engages both global audiences and participating nations.
