Proposal To Increase Number Of Teams In World Cup From 48 To 64 Gains Traction

CONMEBOL President Alejandro Domínguez has renewed debate over the future of the FIFA World Cup after proposing that the 2030 tournament expand to 64 teams, a move that would dramatically increase the size of international football’s premier competition just one cycle after FIFA expanded the event from 32 to 48 nations.

The proposal comes as preparations continue for the 2030 World Cup, which is scheduled to be hosted primarily by Spain, Portugal and Morocco, with commemorative opening matches expected to be played in South America. If approved, the expansion would create the largest World Cup in history and significantly alter qualification pathways, tournament scheduling and the overall competitive landscape of international football.

Supporters of the proposal argue that a 64-team tournament would provide greater representation for emerging football nations and continue FIFA’s efforts to globalize the sport. Confederations from Africa, Asia, Oceania and parts of North America could potentially receive additional qualification spots, allowing more countries to experience the World Cup stage and further grow the game in developing football markets.

Critics, however, have questioned whether expanding the tournament so soon after the move to 48 teams would dilute the quality of competition. Opponents argue that increasing the field to 64 nations could create logistical challenges, place additional demands on players and clubs, and reduce the significance of the qualification process that has historically been one of international football’s most competitive stages.

The proposal also raises questions about tournament scheduling. The 2026 World Cup already expanded the number of participating nations and matches significantly, and a further increase would require FIFA to evaluate venue capacity, travel demands and player workload. With professional football calendars already crowded by domestic leagues, continental competitions and international tournaments, additional matches could become a major point of discussion.

For South American football, the proposal carries particular significance. CONMEBOL nations have historically been among the strongest performers at World Cups, and an expanded field could provide additional opportunities for countries that often face difficult qualification campaigns. At the same time, some observers worry that easier qualification could reduce the intensity and prestige of the region’s famously demanding qualifying process.

FIFA has not formally adopted the proposal, and discussions are expected to continue among football’s governing bodies in the coming months. Any decision would likely have major implications for national federations, players and supporters around the world.

Whether the idea ultimately gains support or not, the proposal reflects football’s continued evolution on the global stage. As FIFA and its member associations evaluate the future of the sport’s most prestigious competition, the debate over expansion is likely to become one of the defining issues leading into the 2030 World Cup.