FIFA is considering a proposal to expand the number of teams in the 2030 World Cup to 64, marking a one-time expansion to celebrate the centenary of the tournament, which was first held in 1930.
This suggestion, which has gained attention from FIFA President Gianni Infantino, would alter the structure of the tournament, already set to be held across three continents for the first time in history.
The 2026 World Cup, which will feature 48 teams, is the first to have been expanded under Infantino’s leadership.
It will be hosted by the United States, with matches also taking place in Mexico and Canada.
The proposal for a 64-team format was introduced during a meeting nearing its conclusion, where Ignacio Alonso from Uruguay presented the idea, reading a pre-prepared speech in English. The expansion plan is being discussed in the context of the evolving complexity of hosting the tournament on such a large scale.