The World Cup could be undergoing another revolution. In an interview with the Swiss media BluewinFIFA President Gianni Infantino has confirmed that the possibility of expanding the league from 48 to 64 teams will indeed be examined by the governing bodies of world football. He specified that this proposal would be discussed within the relevant FIFA committees. No decision has been made at this stage, but the project is now officially among the topics under consideration.
An idea that is already dividing the football world
The potential expansion to 64 teams comes as the 2026 World Cup is the first in history to feature 48 teams. This new format already represents a significant increase compared to the 32 nations that participated in the tournament between 1998 and 2022. A move to 64 teams would constitute another major shift. Such a change would require a greater number of matches, a longer competition, and an adjustment to the international calendar.
More qualified countries
Proponents of the project believe that a 64-team tournament would offer more opportunities for federations from Africa, Asia, Oceania, and CONCACAF. This would give many nations the chance to participate more regularly in the World Cup finals. Conversely, several football officials, coaches, and stakeholders fear a decline in the overall level of play, an overloaded schedule, and an increased number of matches.
No decision has been made at this stage.
Gianni Infantino has not given any timeline for the potential adoption of this reform. The FIFA president merely confirmed that the matter would be examined and debated before any decision is made. If approved, this new format would profoundly alter the organization of the world's most prestigious football competition and mark a new stage in the evolution of the World Cup, which has already been expanded to 48 teams for the 2026 edition.
