Gianni Infantino Revives Controversial 64-Team World Cup Plan

The possibility of a FIFA World Cup 64 Teams tournament has returned to the agenda after Gianni Infantino confirmed the governing body will examine the proposal once the 2026 World Cup comes to an end.

Speaking to Swiss broadcaster Blue Sport, Infantino argued that football's biggest event should give every nation a realistic path to qualification. He said stronger opportunities for smaller countries could help the sport grow well beyond its traditional powers.

His comments have immediately reignited one of football's most divisive conversations.

The next World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico has already expanded from 32 to 48 nations. Even before a ball has been kicked, FIFA is now preparing to discuss another jump that would reshape the tournament again.

If approved, a FIFA World Cup 64 Teams format would feature 128 matches, compared with 104 in 2026 and 64 under the previous system. That dramatic increase has raised questions about scheduling, player workload and the overall quality of competition.

The proposal first gained traction after South American confederation CONMEBOL pushed for a larger tournament to celebrate the centenary edition in 2030. Gianni Infantino later met with South American football leaders to discuss the idea, adding further momentum to the conversation.

Not everyone is convinced.

Concacaf president Victor Montagliani has publicly argued that another expansion would hurt both the tournament and the wider football calendar. UEFA president Aleksander Čeferin has also dismissed the proposal, calling it a bad idea.

Supporters believe broader participation would strengthen football across emerging nations. Critics insist the World Cup risks losing its competitive edge if qualification becomes significantly easier.

FIFA has not placed the proposal on the approval stage yet, but Infantino's latest remarks make it clear the discussion is far from over. What looked like a distant suggestion is now back inside football's decision-making rooms, and another battle over the future of the World Cup appears inevitable.