FIFA considers expanding World Cup to 64 teams by 2030
FIFA has accelerated work on expanding the men's World Cup to 64 teams, launching a rapid consultation process that could introduce the format at the 2030 tournament.
FIFA circulated a research brief on Thursday seeking proposals from independent agencies to assess the commercial and wider football impact of expanding from 48 to 64 teams.
Agencies have until 7 August to submit proposals, with FIFA selecting a bidder by 14 August and the completed analysis delivered on 11 September, before FIFA's 211 member associations vote on the FIFA Forward Enterprise proposal.
The expansion plan comes amid controversy over FIFA's separate proposal to establish FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE), a new commercial entity selling a minority stake in commercial rights, which has faced opposition from UEFA, Concacaf, and the AFC.
The 2030 World Cup is set to be hosted primarily by Spain, Portugal, and Morocco, with centenary matches in Uruguay, Argentina, and Paraguay.
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