Infantino Hints at 64-Team World Cup Expansion Before 2030
Fifa president Gianni Infantino has raised the prospect of the World Cup expanding from 48 to 64 teams before the 2030 tournament, according to a report from The Guardian.
Speaking to Swiss media outlet Bluewin, Infantino confirmed that the idea would be formally looked at once the current tournament wraps up. “That’s definitely an issue that will be examined and discussed in the relevant committees after this World Cup,” he said.
The 2026 edition in the United States, Canada and Mexico is the first to feature 48 teams, having jumped from 32 — the format used from 1998 through to 2022. With four matches remaining from a 104-game schedule, Infantino described the expanded field as a “huge success”, pointing to the high standard of play from teams across all continents.
He highlighted that nine out of ten African nations reached the knockout stage, compared with just five African teams competing at the previous World Cup — a stat he used to underline the value of broadening participation. His argument is a familiar one: giving smaller nations access to the tournament encourages continued investment and development in football at home.
Whether UK bettors and fans agree with the logic or not, a 64-team format would have significant practical implications. The 2030 World Cup is already a sprawling, multi-continent affair. Uruguay, Argentina and Paraguay are each set to host one match in South America to mark the centenary of the original 1930 tournament, while the bulk of the competition takes place across Morocco, Portugal and Spain. If the field were doubled again, those South American hosts could potentially stage a full four-team group stage rather than a single standalone fixture.
No decisions have been made and the idea will need to pass through Fifa’s committee structures before anything is confirmed. For now, it is a discussion point rather than a done deal — but Infantino’s public endorsement suggests the conversation is coming sooner rather than later.
For the latest on the ongoing tournament, including results and knockout bracket updates, visit our World Cup 2026 hub or check the live standings ahead of the semi-finals.