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The 2030 edition of the FIFA World Cup could witness a significant expansion to 64 teams, according to an ambitious proposal put forward by the president of CONMEBOL. Following Spain’s victory in the recently concluded 48-nation tournament, discussions among top football administrators have turned towards the possibility of a grander, six-nation event to mark the centenary of the competition.

A centenary celebration on a larger scale

Alejandro Dominguez has ignited widespread debate after proposing that the next World Cup should include an even greater number of participating nations. Sharing his thoughts on social media, Dominguez outlined his vision for this expanded version of the tournament.

“In 2030, the World Cup comes to Uruguay, Argentina and Paraguay, a great opportunity for football, to celebrate the World Cup Centenary with a 64-team tournament,” Dominguez declared.

This bold suggestion follows the 2026 World Cup, the first ever to feature 48 teams. The 2030 competition already stands out as a unique edition, with Spain, Morocco and Portugal designated as primary hosts, while Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay will stage three commemorative matches to honour the tournament’s 100th anniversary.

Gianni Infantino open to further expansion

FIFA has yet to release an official statement regarding the proposed expansion. Nonetheless, FIFA President Gianni Infantino has previously acknowledged that the idea of increasing the number of teams to 64 is under consideration. Speaking to Swiss broadcaster Blue Sport on 12 July, Infantino provided insight into the organisation’s approach.

“This is certainly an issue that will be looked at and discussed in the relevant committees after this World Cup,” Infantino explained. “When you organise a World Cup, it’s important that you do it for the entire world. It’s not just about Europe and South America—it’s truly global. Every nation should have the dream of participating in the World Cup.”

Encouraging smaller football nations

Infantino also emphasised that allowing more teams to compete would benefit the sport’s global growth. He added, “We are witnessing that the standard of football across the world keeps improving. The quality of teams is extremely high and continues to rise. If smaller countries are not given the chance to play at the World Cup, they lose motivation to develop further.”

Introducing a 64-team structure would dramatically change the tournament’s scope. Should the proposal be approved, it would lead to 128 matches being played—double the number contested under the 32-team system used between 1998 and 2022, and a considerable increase from the 104 fixtures in the most recent edition.

The road ahead for global football

FIFA’s committees are now expected to conduct detailed assessments of the logistical and physical challenges involved in adding 16 more teams. With Spain having lifted the latest trophy, football administrators must soon decide whether six nations can effectively co-host such a 128-match event. Fans around the world will be watching closely for an announcement that could redefine both the centenary celebration and the future of international football.