FIFA are reportedly considering expanding the 2030 World Cup to 64 teams, in what would be a historic move to mark 100 years since the very first World Cup in 1930.
The 2030 edition, already confirmed to be hosted across multiple countries – Spain, Portugal, and Morocco,
with opening matches in Uruguay, Argentina, and Paraguay – could become the biggest tournament in football history.
Why 64 Teams?
The idea is to honor the centenary of the World Cup by making the competition as inclusive as possible.
Expanding to 64 nations would give more countries across all continents the chance to participate in football’s biggest stage,
celebrating the global reach of the game.
It would also align with FIFA’s vision of growth and development, giving smaller nations the opportunity to showcase their footballing progress.
The Challenges
While the move sounds exciting, a 64-team format would bring logistical challenges:
Scheduling: More matches mean a longer tournament, which could affect domestic seasons.
Venues: With multiple host nations, coordinating fixtures across continents could be a massive undertaking.
Quality of competition: Some argue that adding more teams risks diluting the overall level of play.
What It Means for Football
More opportunities for underdogs – Teams from Africa, Asia, and CONCACAF would have increased chances to qualify.
Bigger global spectacle – More fans worldwide would feel represented in the centenary tournament.
Commercial boost – More matches also mean higher broadcasting and sponsorship revenue.
A Historic Edition in the Making
If approved, the 2030 World Cup would not only celebrate a century of football’s greatest tournament but also symbolize FIFA’s long-term vision of inclusivity.
From the first edition in Uruguay 1930 with just 13 teams, to a potential 64-team extravaganza in 2030, the World Cup has truly evolved into the
biggest sporting event in the world.