According to The Guardian and ESPN, FIFA has released a "study outline" to consult on the possibility of increasing the number of participating teams from the current 48 to 64. The 5-page document, issued on 30/7, indicates FIFA is "examining the strategic impacts of expanding the FIFA World Cup beyond its current format".

The successful bidder, anticipated to be chosen on 14/8, will have only four weeks to complete the report. FIFA has mandated that the research findings be submitted by 11/9, enabling the organization to reach a decision in 2026.

The World Cup trophy during an online meeting of the FIFA Council in Zurich, Switzerland, on 4/10/2023. Photo: *Reuters*

The document's timeline stipulates that research firms must submit their proposals by 7/8. FIFA plans to announce its selection on 14/8, with the full analytical report due approximately one month later.

This accelerated schedule, with only 15 days between the study outline's release and FIFA's selection of a firm, has raised concerns about the consultation period for a change that could mark the biggest turning point in World Cup history.

The 2030 World Cup is set to be co-hosted by Spain, Morocco, and Portugal. Additionally, Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay will host some matches to commemorate the tournament's 100th anniversary. An expansion to 64 teams would likely mean each of these nations could host at least one group stage.

The South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL) supports the move, but the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) and the Confederation of North, Central America and Caribbean Association Football (CONCACAF) have repeatedly opposed further World Cup expansion. FIFA's continued push for this plan is expected to heighten tensions between the global football governing body and continental federations.

The study outline mandates an assessment of stakeholder support or opposition to the expansion, alongside an analysis of its impact on player health, tournament quality, and the international match calendar. The report must also estimate total revenue from ticket sales, sponsorships, and media rights, specifically identifying revenue generated by a 64-team World Cup model.

This latest move fuels further scrutiny of FIFA's governance, following recent reports that President Gianni Infantino sought to sell a portion of the World Cup's commercial rights to private investors. That plan met widespread opposition and was swiftly canceled.

Infantino faces growing pressure from continental federations. He was previously expected to secure re-election for a new four-year term in 2027 without opposition. However, advancing this World Cup expansion plan with a brief consultation window, coupled with the controversial proposal to sell World Cup stakes, could intensify opposition to the Swiss-Italian leader.

Hong Duy (according to Guardian, ESPN)