FIFA Moves To Expand World Cup

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has backed an internal feasibility study that supports the expansion of the World Cup to include 48 teams, as has the body’s council.

The next step is for the body to identify a co-host for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, with a final decision expected in June. It may not be an easy task, however, as several countries in the region including Bahrain, Saudi Arabia and the UAE have a diplomatic blockade of Qatar in place. 

The World Cup currently sees 32 teams compete; meaning the proposed increase in 48 teams would be an expansion of 50 per cent. The number of matches played in the tournament will increase from 64 to 80. If a suitable co-host is not agreed upon for the 2022 contest, then the planned expansion may be postponed until the 2026 World Cup in North America.