FIFA is reportedly moving closer to a historic expansion of the World Cup after several European media outlets revealed growing internal support for a 64-team tournament. The governing body will already introduce a 48-nation format at the World Cup 2026, but FIFA officials now appear ready to push the competition even further ahead of the 2030 edition co-hosted by Spain, Portugal, and Morocco.
According to reports from Spain, CONMEBOL strongly supports the idea and has convinced several other confederations during recent discussions within FIFA.
FIFA wants to include more nations in the tournament
FIFA president Gianni Infantino reportedly wants to open the tournament to more countries and give smaller football nations greater visibility on the world stage. The possible participation of teams such as Jordan and Cape Verde at the next World Cup has reportedly encouraged FIFA officials to continue expanding the competition. Supporters of the project believe a larger tournament would strengthen diversity, inclusion, and global representation in football’s biggest event.
FIFA will reportedly begin formal discussions about the organization of the World Cup 2030 after the conclusion of the upcoming tournament. Officials will also discuss stadium selections in Spain, Portugal, and Morocco alongside the potential expansion project.
However, the proposal continues to divide opinion, as critics fear that a 64-team format could reduce the overall level and competitiveness of the tournament by allowing too many smaller nations to qualify.
