FIFA, Gianni Infantino and member associations
Thursday
FIFA has begun a consultation on expanding the men’s World Cup from 48 to 64 teams starting in 2030. Documents seen by ESPN set a rapid timetable, with an initial decision targeted for 14 August.
An independent agency has been asked to assess the tournament and wider football impact, with proposals due on 7 August and full analysis in September. The compressed process could intensify opposition already surrounding Infantino’s leadership and governance approach.