Beyond 48: The Next World Cup Expansion is Off the Agenda

For those anticipating the next phase of World Cup expansion, the message from FIFA is clear: it’s off the agenda. The governing body has confirmed it is not considering a 64-team tournament for 2030, effectively ending the conversation about growing beyond the 48-team format for the foreseeable future.
The discussion was reignited by a formal proposal from South American football officials, who presented their case for a larger centenary tournament to FIFA President Gianni Infantino. Their meeting in New York put the idea of a 64-team format back in the headlines.
However, the idea has been swiftly and decisively shut down. The issue is not on the agenda for the next meeting of the FIFA Council, the only body that can approve such a change. This is a clear procedural signal that the proposal is not being seriously considered.
The reason for this is the strong internal opposition. Sources within FIFA have indicated that the council is united in its belief that a 64-team format would harm the World Cup’s quality and prestige. This view is supported by powerful confederation heads who have publicly criticized the idea.
With the first 48-team tournament still two years away, FIFA’s focus is on making that new format work. The question of expanding “beyond 48” has been answered with a firm “not now,” pushing any potential for further growth well into the next decade.