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The World Cup could soon become even grander, as FIFA is exploring the possibility of expanding the 2030 edition to a massive 66 teams — marking one of the most ambitious transformations in the tournament’s history.

Fresh discussions have resurfaced within FIFA’s executive board regarding an expanded format for the 2030 World Cup. Although the 2026 edition will already feature 48 participating nations, football’s governing body is now examining a plan that could push that number to 66.

A major leap in global participation

As preparations continue for the first-ever 48-team World Cup to be hosted across North America in 2026, FIFA’s leadership is already setting its sights further ahead. Reports from AS suggest that the proposal to enlarge the 2030 World Cup to 66 teams — initially brought forward by CONMEBOL to enhance opportunities for more nations — has gained considerable traction in recent weeks. What began as an ambitious concept is now gathering serious support from multiple member associations.

Under the leadership of FIFA President Gianni Infantino, the organization increasingly sees this plan as a step toward greater inclusivity. Infantino has often referred to the World Cup as a “global celebration,” and a 66-team format would open new doors for countries that have never before qualified. With the 2026 tournament expected to feature debutants such as Cape Verde, Curacao, Uzbekistan, and Jordan, the enthusiasm for a wider field of participants continues to grow within FIFA’s corridors of power.

Challenges for host nations

The 2030 World Cup is currently scheduled to be jointly hosted by Spain, Portugal, and Morocco, with ceremonial opening matches planned in Argentina, Uruguay, and Paraguay to commemorate the tournament’s centenary. However, expanding to 66 teams would significantly strain existing infrastructure and logistical capacity. The official plan remains at 48 teams for now, but FIFA is not expected to finalize the tournament’s structure until after the 2026 final, which will take place on July 19, 2026.

In Spain, preparations are already evolving. Malaga is reported to have withdrawn its bid to host matches, while the future of venues such as San Mames and Reale Arena remains uncertain. Ultimately, FIFA will make the final call on venue selection, regardless of the final team count.

The journey toward 2030

Although a 66-team World Cup remains a proposal at this stage, the upcoming 2026 edition in the United States, Mexico, and Canada will serve as a critical test for FIFA’s expanded vision. Should the 48-team format prove both commercially successful and competitively balanced, momentum for further expansion may become unstoppable. FIFA’s stated objective is to make the event more inclusive and representative of the entire footballing world.

At present, the organization has not ruled out the idea. What was once dismissed as “unrealistic” is now being viewed as an achievable evolution of the sport. While some critics warn that expansion could dilute the quality of competition, FIFA’s leadership appears convinced that the economic and engagement benefits of a 66-team tournament far outweigh the risks.

Club World Cup expansion off the table

While FIFA is keen on enlarging the World Cup, similar changes are not being pursued for the Club World Cup. The governing body has reportedly stepped back from earlier plans to stage the revamped Club World Cup every two years. For now, the next edition is scheduled for 2029, with the biennial concept considered incompatible with the already crowded global football calendar.

Concerns over player welfare and fixture congestion have intensified in recent months, prompting FIFA to take a more cautious stance on the club front. However, with the World Cup remaining its flagship competition, the drive for greater participation and more matches continues to dominate FIFA’s long-term agenda, with full focus set to return to the 2030 edition once the 2026 tournament concludes.