Should FIFA Expand the World Cup to 64 Teams?

World Cup expansion is once again at the forefront of football discussions, with FIFA contemplating an unprecedented move to a 64-team tournament. As global football bodies and fans weigh the implications, the debate over whether such expansion would benefit the sport—both competitively and commercially—continues to intensify.

World Cup Expansion: How Did We Get Here?

The push for a larger World Cup began with the decision to increase the number of teams from 32 to 48 for the 2026 edition. This substantial jump more than doubled the participation since the last U.S.-hosted World Cup in 1994. Now, with CONMEBOL—the South American football federation—actively lobbying FIFA President Gianni Infantino to consider a 64-team format for 2030, the question of further expansion has become a hot topic.

Expanding to 64 teams presents both logistical and competitive challenges. According to sources close to FIFA, such a proposal would face significant opposition not only from European federations but from other continental bodies as well. Many believe that increasing the number of participating teams could dilute the quality of the tournament and disrupt its traditional structure.

Who Would Benefit from a 64-Team World Cup?

A 64-team World Cup would undoubtedly open doors for nations that have historically struggled to qualify. Emerging football countries across Africa, Asia, and even North America could see their first-ever World Cup appearances, providing a much-needed boost to their footballing infrastructure and international exposure. Smaller nations would gain invaluable experience, which could accelerate the growth of the beautiful game worldwide.

From a commercial perspective, FIFA stands to benefit the most. A larger tournament means more broadcasts, greater ticket sales, and more opportunities for sponsorship deals. The drive for increased revenue has been evident in other FIFA competitions, such as the expanded Club World Cup, where qualification rules have become more flexible to include more teams.

Potential Drawbacks and Logistics

However, not all stakeholders are on board. UEFA President Alexander Ceferin and other influential voices have expressed concerns that a 64-team format could damage the prestige of the World Cup. With more teams, there is a risk of lopsided matches, logistical headaches, and an even more congested international football calendar.

Staging a 64-team event would require a significant expansion of host cities, stadiums, and infrastructure. It would also likely extend the length of the tournament, further complicating club schedules and player workloads.

The Likelihood of 64 Teams Becoming Reality

Despite the ongoing lobbying from CONMEBOL and the commercial allure for FIFA, the likelihood of a 64-team World Cup remains slim—at least for now. As one insider put it, “Gianni would not get that vote through Council even if he wanted to. The overwhelming feeling around the table—and not just in Europe—is that 64 teams would damage the World Cup.”

Still, the seeds of this idea have been planted. As FIFA continues to pursue greater global engagement and revenue, it is not unreasonable to think that further expansion could become possible in the future, especially with changing leadership and a new generation of football stars on the horizon.

What Would a 64-Team Tournament Mean for Top Nations?

For established footballing powers like the United States Men’s National Team (USMNT), an expanded World Cup would almost guarantee qualification, potentially reducing the stakes of regional qualifiers. However, it could also provide these teams with a platform to experiment and develop younger talent on the biggest stage.

Opinion: Is Bigger Always Better?

World Cup expansion to 64 teams is a double-edged sword. On one hand, it democratizes football, offering more nations the chance to participate and inspire future generations. On the other hand, it risks undermining the tournament’s competitive edge and logistical feasibility. The World Cup’s magic has always come from its blend of drama, unpredictability, and elite competition. Drastic expansion should be approached carefully—growth is good, but not at the expense of the tournament’s identity.

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