CONMEBOL President Proposes 64-Team World Cup Across Six Hosts for 2030
The 2030 World Cup might see a major expansion, possibly involving 64 teams, according to statements from CONMEBOL president Alejandro Dominguez. This idea has stirred discussion after the recently concluded 48-team tournament ended with Spain lifting the trophy.
An Ambitious Plan for the Centenary Tournament
Dominguez took to social media to share his vision for the 2030 event, which will mark 100 years of the World Cup. The competition is set to be hosted by six countries: Uruguay, Argentina, Paraguay, Spain, Morocco, and Portugal. Dominguez stated, "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."
This would build on the 2026 tournament’s expansion to 48 teams, and add to the unique hosting arrangement featuring three European and African hosts alongside three South American nations. The centenary celebrations also include special matches in the South American host countries.
FIFA President Weighs In on Expansion
Though FIFA has not officially confirmed any changes, Gianni Infantino has expressed interest in further enlarging the men's World Cup. Speaking with Swiss broadcaster Blue Sport on July 12, Infantino remarked, "This is certainly an issue that will be looked at and discussed in the relevant committees after this World Cup." He emphasized the importance of making the tournament accessible globally, saying every nation should dream of participating.
Infantino stressed that expanding the field could motivate smaller countries to improve their teams, highlighting the rising quality of football worldwide. "If you don’t give smaller countries the chance to participate in the World Cup, they also lose the incentive to keep improving," he explained.
Implications of a 64-Team Format
Moving to 64 teams would double the number of matches compared to the traditional 32-team format used from 1998 through 2022. A 64-team event would feature 128 games, significantly more than the 104 matches played in 2026. This shift would reshape the tournament's structure and present new logistical challenges.
What Comes Next?
FIFA committees are expected to evaluate the physical demands and organizational complexities of adding 16 extra teams. After Spain’s victory, football leaders must decide if six host countries can handle a tournament with 128 matches. Fans await an official announcement that will define both the centenary celebration and the future direction of international football.
