FIFA is set to review a proposal that could expand the FIFA World Cup to 64 teams starting from the 2030 edition—a move that may significantly boost Africa’s representation on football’s biggest stage.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino confirmed that the idea will be discussed by the organization’s relevant committees after the conclusion of the 2026 World Cup, which already marks an expansion from 32 to 48 teams.
Speaking in an interview with Swiss outlet Bluewin, Infantino emphasized FIFA’s commitment to inclusivity in global football.
“The World Cup is for the whole world, not just Europe and South America,” he said. “Every nation should be allowed to dream of participating. The quality of teams globally is improving, and giving more countries access will only accelerate that growth.”
If approved, the expansion to 64 teams would add 16 more nations to the tournament, potentially increasing Africa’s allocation beyond the 10 slots it currently holds under the 48-team format.
The proposal was initially tabled by Uruguayan football official Ignacio Alonso during a FIFA Council meeting in March 2025.
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It has since gained support from CONMEBOL President Alejandro Domínguez, who believes a larger tournament could further unite the global football community.
The 2030 World Cup is already set to be historic, with matches scheduled across six countries on three continents. Uruguay, Argentina, and Paraguay will host the opening games, while Morocco, Portugal, and Spain will stage the remainder of the tournament.
However, the proposed expansion has drawn criticism from some football authorities. UEFA President Aleksander Čeferin described the idea as a “bad move,” warning it could dilute the quality of the competition and disrupt qualification structures. Similarly, CONCACAF President Victor Montagliani has expressed reservations about further increasing the number of teams.
Despite the concerns, FIFA maintains that expanding the tournament aligns with its vision of making football more inclusive and globally representative. If implemented, the 64-team format would allow more than a quarter of FIFA’s 210 member associations to participate—marking the most significant expansion in World Cup history.
As deliberations continue, many African nations and fans remain hopeful that the proposal will open the door to greater continental representation and opportunity on the world stage.
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