FIFA Considers Expanding 2030 World Cup to 64 Teams

FIFA is considering expanding the 2030 World Cup to 64 teams as the centenary tournament prepares to be hosted across six nations and three continents.

Asian Media Network | Published on: Jul 12, 2026, 9:14 PM

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has indicated that football's governing body will study the possibility of increasing the FIFA World Cup to 64 teams for the 2030 edition, adding 16 more nations to the global tournament.

The proposal comes as FIFA prepares to introduce a 48-team format for the 2026 World Cup, marking another potential expansion aimed at giving more countries the chance to compete on football's biggest stage.

The 2030 tournament is already set to be a historic event, with matches scheduled across six countries spanning three continents. The unique hosting arrangement is expected to celebrate the centenary of the first FIFA World Cup held in 1930.

While supporters believe a larger tournament would boost football development worldwide and increase global participation, critics have raised concerns over fixture congestion, travel demands and maintaining the quality of competition.