FIFA is considering a proposal to expand the 2030 men’s World Cup to 64 teams, after South American leaders and football executives formally pitched the idea during meetings at FIFA’s New York headquarters. The delegation, led by CONMEBOL president Alejandro Domínguez and joined by presidents of Paraguay and Uruguay, argued that the centenary tournament deserves a one-off, historic expansion.
Domínguez suggested that Paraguay, Argentina, and Uruguay could each host a group, marking the 100th anniversary of the first World Cup held in Uruguay in 1930. FIFA president Gianni Infantino expressed openness to the idea, saying “every idea is a good idea,” though no final decisions were made.
The proposal faces significant opposition. UEFA president Aleksander Čeferin called it a “bad idea,” while CONCACAF president Victor Montagliani also voiced disapproval, arguing FIFA hasn’t even tested the 48-team format debuting in 2026.
The 2030 World Cup is already unprecedented, set to be played across six nations on three continents: Paraguay, Uruguay, Argentina, Spain, Portugal, and Morocco. South American leaders worry their limited hosting role could prevent them from bidding for 2034 and 2038 under FIFA’s rotation rules.
Ultimately, FIFA’s Council will need to approve any expansion, and discussions are ongoing. Proponents frame the plan as a way to make the centenary World Cup unforgettable, while critics warn it could dilute the tournament’s quality and disrupt qualification.