Could the next World Cup have even more teams? FIFA is considering it
FIFA Weighs Further Expansion of World Cup Beyond 48 Teams
Could the next World Cup have - As the current tournament draws to its climax, questions are emerging about whether soccer's premier competition should grow even larger. The latest edition has already shattered records with 48 participating nations, yet FIFA President Gianni Infantino suggests this might not be the final number.
When the decision to expand from 32 to 48 teams was first revealed, reactions were mixed. Critics worried that adding more participants would dilute the quality of play and undermine the tournament's exclusivity. However, the expanded format has largely won over skeptics. Debuting nations have delivered memorable performances, with Cape Verde advancing to the knockout phase and Curaçao capturing global attention through their spirited approach and eye-catching uniforms.
That's definitely an issue that will be examined and discussed in the relevant committees after this World Cup. When organizing a World Cup, it's important to organize it for the whole world – not just Europe and South America – but effectively the entire world. Every nation should be allowed to dream of participating in the World Cup.
Infantino emphasized that maintaining competitive standards while broadening participation creates mutual benefits. He noted that global football quality continues rising, and smaller nations need opportunities to showcase their progress. Without World Cup exposure, he argued, developing footballing countries might lose motivation to invest in their programs.
The 2030 edition presents a natural opportunity for further growth. While Spain, Portugal, and Morocco will serve as primary hosts, three opening matches will take place in Argentina, Uruguay, and Paraguay to commemorate the centenary of the inaugural tournament held in Uruguay. CONMEBOL has already put forward a proposal for a 64-team format to honor this milestone anniversary.
Financial advantages and lasting legacy are among the arguments supporting expansion. Yet practical concerns remain. The current 104-match schedule already extends the tournament duration considerably. Players competing deep into the knockout stages face minimal recovery time before their club commitments resume. Many athletes may not welcome additional matches in their calendars.
Final Week Schedule
Before diving deeper into the expansion debate, here is what fans should mark on their calendars for the concluding week of competition:
Semifinal One: France versus Spain on July 14 at 3 p.m. ET, held at Dallas Stadium (AT&T Stadium) in Arlington, Texas.
Semifinal Two: England takes on Argentina on July 15 at 3 p.m. ET at Atlanta Stadium (Mercedes-Benz Stadium) in Georgia.
Third-Place Playoff: Scheduled for July 18 at 5 p.m. ET at Miami Stadium (Hard Rock Stadium) in Miami Gardens, Florida.
Championship Match: The final will conclude on July 19 at 3 p.m. ET at New York/New Jersey Stadium (MetLife Stadium) in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
Haaland's Global Rise
While the tournament structure debate continues, Norway's Erling Haaland has emerged as one of the competition's most compelling figures. Though his national team has been eliminated, the striker's personal journey has resonated worldwide.
I think this has changed my life, to be honest.
Haaland arrived in North America as a recognized talent but has transformed into a genuine global icon. His distinctive personality captured internet audiences, creating a cultural moment beyond traditional football coverage. The Norwegian has clearly enjoyed his time in the region, balancing on-field achievements with off-pitch experiences.
His increased visibility has elevated him from elite athlete to household name. As CNN Sports prepares to close this edition of The Beautiful Game, Haaland's story represents one of the tournament's most human elements—a reminder that beyond statistics and standings, individual journeys make sporting events memorable.
The question of whether more teams means better or worse football remains open. What is certain is that the conversation will continue long after the final whistle blows in New Jersey.