FIFA President Gianni Infantino revealed that soccer’s governing organization will assess a plan to grow the World Cup to 64 participants for the 2030 event once the 2026 tournament ends. The current competition, held across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, currently includes 48 teams, an increase from the 32-team structure used for decades.
Infantino informed Swiss outlet Bluewin that FIFA committees will formally review the proposal. He argued that expanding access allows more nations to participate, which fosters growth and encourages smaller football programs to develop. While some critics, such as Ghana coach Carlos Queiroz, contend that expansion dilutes the tournament’s quality, Infantino insists the 48-team change has already proven successful.
The concept of 64 teams was initially suggested by Uruguayan official Ignacio Alonso in March 2025 and later supported by CONMEBOL President Alejandro Dominguez. Proponents suggest it could resolve concerns regarding the 2030 tournament, which is slated to take place across six nations in South America, Africa, and Europe. Under the current arrangement, Uruguay, Argentina, and Paraguay are only hosting opening matches, but a larger field might allow them to host full group stages.
Despite this, the plan faces significant pushback. UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin and CONCACAF head Victor Montagliani have both publicly opposed the expansion, citing concerns over potential quality decline in both the global tournament and continental qualifiers. Meanwhile, Infantino confirmed he maintains regular contact with U.S. President Donald Trump, who continues to track the current tournament and is slated to present the championship trophy.
