Javier Tebas, the leader of Spain’s La Liga, has condemned FIFA for what he labels irresponsible behavior regarding potential plans for a 64-team World Cup in 2030. In a conversation with the Italian publication La Gazzetta dello Sport, Tebas asserted that the administration under Gianni Infantino is failing, describing the global governing body as a system plagued by deep-seated issues.
Tebas argued that the broader football economy is being compromised for the sake of a single tournament. He highlighted that while the World Cup is a significant event lasting only 40 days, the livelihoods of thousands depend on the stability of domestic leagues throughout the year. He emphasized that domestic competitions are the true heartbeat of the sport, not the periodic international events.
The criticism follows comments made by Infantino during the last World Cup regarding a massive expansion for the 2030 centenary event, which will span multiple continents. Tebas stressed that FIFA’s focus should be on reducing international match congestion rather than adding more teams, warning that their current decision-making process threatens the long-term health of professional football.
