The FIFA World Cup continues to grow, and momentum is building for what could become the largest edition in its history. With the 2026 World Cup already set to feature 48 teams, discussions are intensifying around expanding the 2030 tournament to a massive 64 teams to mark the competition’s centenary.
From 32 to 48 to 64? The Evolution of the World Cup
The men’s FIFA World Cup expanded from 32 to 48 teams for the first time in 2026, hosted across Canada, Mexico, and the United States. This change allowed more nations to participate and increased the number of matches significantly.
Now, as the football world looks toward 2030, South American football leaders, particularly from CONMEBOL, are pushing for an even bolder expansion. CONMEBOL President Alejandro Domínguez has publicly described a 64-team World Cup as his “dream,” calling it a one-time celebration for the 100th anniversary of the first World Cup held in Uruguay in 1930.
This proposal would see roughly 30% of FIFA’s 210+ member associations qualify for the finals — a huge leap that promises broader global representation.
What This Means for Fans and Teams
A 64-team format would likely feature more group stages and knockout rounds, offering underdogs greater opportunities to shine on the world stage. Fans could see exciting new matchups and a longer, more inclusive tournament.
For powerhouses like Brazil, Argentina, and European giants, qualification would remain relatively straightforward, but the expanded field would create more thrilling storylines overall.