FIFA President Gianni Infantino has revealed that FIFA is considering expanding the competition to a 64-team tournament in 2030.
Ahead of the final matches of the 2026 edition, the head of soccer’s world governing body has confirmed that an internal committee will formally discuss the addition of a further 16 countries.
The South American soccer leaders’ pitch sparked a mid-tournament proposal, opening the door to an even bigger version of the quadrennial spectacle.
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Coach Gianni Infantino says he plans to discuss plans for a 64-team World Cup
FIFA chiefs have made it clear that expanding the competition to a 64-team tournament is on the agenda.
In an interview with Swiss outlet Bluewin (quoted via Mirror), Infantino revealed that the topic is officially on the table. “This issue will definitely be considered and discussed by the relevant committees after this World Cup,” he announced.
Infantino argued that soccer showcase events needed to be more inclusive and vigorously defended the idea of a giant field. He stressed that the World Cup is for “the whole world, not just Europe or South America.”
According to Infantino, expanding the number of athletes is essential for the sport to develop globally. “All countries should be allowed to have the dream of participating in the World Cup,” he added.
“If we don’t give small countries a chance to participate, they will lack the incentive to keep improving.”
FIFA considers World Cup expanded to 48 teams a success
Discussions about 2030 come just as the tournament concludes its largest iteration in history.
The controversial 2026 World Cup will feature 48 teams for the first time, a significant increase from the traditional 32-team format that has been in place since 1998.
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Despite initial skepticism from critics over player fatigue and a decline in quality, the current 48-team tournament has been deemed a major success by FIFA.
The tournament featured 104 games across the United States, Mexico, and Canada, delivering high drama and record fan attendance.
This positive momentum could prompt FIFA leadership to accelerate discussions about a 64-team tournament, effectively doubling the size of the tournament from its traditional days.
