FIFA Considers 64-Team World Cup After Success Of Expanded 2026 Tournament
FIFA is considering expanding the FIFA World Cup to 64 teams following what it has described as the successful implementation of the new 48-team format at the 2026 tournament.
The World Cup featured 32 teams from France 1998 through Qatar 2022 before expanding to 48 nations for the 2026 edition, jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has hailed the expanded competition as a "100 per cent success."
The 2026 tournament has grown to 104 matches and attracted impressive attendance figures, strengthening FIFA's confidence in the new format.
Encouraged by the positive response, FIFA is now exploring the possibility of increasing the tournament to 64 teams in future editions.
Such a move would dramatically reshape the qualification process, provide more opportunities for emerging football nations, and further expand the global reach of the competition.
While no final decision has been made, discussions over a 64-team World Cup are expected to continue as FIFA evaluates the sporting, logistical and commercial implications of another major expansion.
The World Cup featured 32 teams from France 1998 through Qatar 2022 before expanding to 48 nations for the 2026 edition, jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has hailed the expanded competition as a "100 per cent success."
The 2026 tournament has grown to 104 matches and attracted impressive attendance figures, strengthening FIFA's confidence in the new format.
Encouraged by the positive response, FIFA is now exploring the possibility of increasing the tournament to 64 teams in future editions.
Such a move would dramatically reshape the qualification process, provide more opportunities for emerging football nations, and further expand the global reach of the competition.
While no final decision has been made, discussions over a 64-team World Cup are expected to continue as FIFA evaluates the sporting, logistical and commercial implications of another major expansion.
