How Many Teams Will Play in the FIFA 2030 World Cup?

FIFA World Cup which once used to be quite simple is changing as well. The 2026 FIFA World Cup set to be held in the United States Of America, Mexico and Canada already consists of 48 teams and quite a packed schedule. As of now, FIFA President Gianni Infantino is considering adding 14 more teams under advice from a proposal from Ignacio Alonso, a Uruguayan delegate.

What Is the Bigger Picture in FIFA’s Plans?

The proposal is wildly controversial and was met with silence however the main motive for FIFA is political and mainly financial gains. More teams will result in more countries further leading to a more global audience and more matches which will provide substantial financial. However, the inclusion of 64 teams from all across the globe will render the qualification process meaningless.

The proposal also offers some good benefits since more countries will get a greater chance to compete in the most prestigious tournament ever. Countries like India which have a massive population stand a greater chance to compete in the 2030 FIFA World Cup since it might get extended to 64 teams.

As of now, the 2026 World Cup will require a total of 104 games to be played across the tournament and this is only in 48 teams. The inclusion of more teams will create perhaps more unnecessary fixtures leading to a bloated schedule.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has already made history tinkering and meddling with the prestigious tournament which had remained unchanged since 1930. He did this for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in which there are 48 teams which did come as a shock to everyone.

What’s Next?

The 2030 tournament is set to take place across six countries namely Morocco, Portugal, and Spain whereas the ” anniversary matches” will be played in Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay.