Infantino pushes 64‑team expansion for 2030 World Cup

Gianni Infantino is exploring a major expansion of the 2030 World Cup, aiming to increase the tournament to 64 teams as FIFA prepares to celebrate its centenary. According to The Athletic, the proposal is under internal evaluation, with officials assessing logistical feasibility in the coming months. The expanded format would add 16 nations and stage matches across six host countries.

The 2030 edition is already set to be historic, with Uruguay, Argentina and Paraguay hosting opening fixtures as a tribute to the inaugural 1930 World Cup. The competition will then move to Spain, Portugal and Morocco, one of which will be selected to host the final.

Infantino argues that global football development depends on giving smaller nations a platform to compete, insisting the World Cup “belongs to everyone.” FIFA will formally assess the expansion once the current tournament concludes, while final venue decisions remain unresolved.