FIFA and Gianni Infantino
After the 2026 World Cup
FIFA will examine a possible 64-team World Cup before the 2030 tournament after Gianni Infantino confirmed the proposal will go to relevant committees. The idea follows South American lobbying and would expand the competition again after 2026’s 48-team format.
Infantino argued smaller nations need a chance to dream, but UEFA and CONCACAF leaders have already criticised the plan. A 64-team event could reshape qualification, increase host demands and risk making some regional qualifying paths less meaningful.