A Centenary Format
CONMEBOL president Alejandro Dominguez announced that the 2030 World Cup will be staged with 64 participating nations, a milestone that coincides with the competition’s 100th anniversary.
The tournament’s central hub will be a joint bid by Spain, Portugal and Morocco, while additional matches are slated for Paraguay, Uruguay and Argentina, ensuring a pan‑American presence.
FIFA chief Gianni Infantino has voiced his backing for the expansion, arguing that the rapid improvement in global football standards justifies a larger field and that the format can showcase more talent.
The proposal builds on the recent shift to a 48‑team edition in 2022, which introduced 104 matches and set the stage for an even more ambitious 64‑team schedule with 128 games.
LaLiga president Javier Tebas has criticised the plan, contending that reducing the number of national teams and safeguarding domestic leagues would be more prudent for the sport’s ecosystem.
Economists predict that the expanded tournament could generate a record revenue surge for FIFA, with the extra matches expected to drive sponsorship, broadcasting and merchandising growth.
If approved, the 2030 edition would not only celebrate a century of football history but also reshape the competitive landscape, prompting further discussion on governance, qualification pathways and the balance between club and international commitments.