The World Cup may be expanding to 64 teams for the 2030 tournament, according to Alejandro Domínguez, president of the South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL). Domínguez announced the potential change on social media, stating, "In 2030, the World Cup comes to Uruguay, Argentina and Paraguay, a great opportunity for football, to celebrate the World Cup Centenary with a 64-team tournament."
While FIFA has not officially confirmed the announcement, FIFA President Gianni Infantino indicated on July 12 that the organization would discuss expanding the World Cup from its current 48 teams to 64. This proposed expansion follows the recent increase from 32 to 48 teams for the 2026 World Cup.
Infantino previously stated that an expanded World Cup format aims to include more nations globally. "When you organize a World Cup, it's important that you organize it for the whole world. It’s not just Europe and South America, but the entire world, effectively. Every nation should be able to dream of taking part in the World Cup," he told Swiss broadcaster Blue Sport. Infantino also noted the rising quality of play worldwide, suggesting that broader participation encourages improvement in developing football nations.
The 2026 World Cup, expanded to 48 teams, will feature 104 matches, an increase from the 64 games played in the 2022 tournament. A further expansion to 64 teams would result in 128 matches. Under such a format, teams would still participate in three group stage games before advancing to knockout rounds, playing up to five additional matches.
The 2030 World Cup is set to be jointly hosted by Spain, Morocco, and Portugal. Additionally, three centenary matches will be held in South America to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the tournament. The 2026 World Cup final saw Spain defeat Argentina 1-0.