FIFA Considers 64-Team Format for 2030 World Cup

FIFA announced that the 2026 World Cup will expand to 48 teams, marking the first change to the tournament’s size since the 1998 edition. The decision follows a review of the competition’s format and aims to increase global representation while maintaining the event’s competitive integrity. The expanded roster will be hosted jointly by the United States, Canada and Mexico, with 16 groups of three teams each and a streamlined knockout stage.

Looking ahead, FIFA has indicated that the 2030 World Cup could see a further increase to 64 teams. This potential expansion would involve a more extensive qualification process and a larger group stage, reflecting the sport’s growing popularity and the governing body’s intent to broaden participation. The 2030 tournament is scheduled to be hosted by a joint bid from Argentina and Uruguay, and the decision on the exact format will be finalized in the coming months.

The move to 48 teams in 2026 and the possibility of 64 teams in 2030 underscore FIFA’s strategy to make the World Cup more inclusive while balancing logistical and competitive considerations. As the organization finalizes the details, stakeholders—including national associations, broadcasters and fans—will be closely monitoring how these changes will shape the future of the world’s premier football competition.