If FIFA expands the World Cup again, how would a 64-team tournament work?
The 2026 World Cup was the first to feature 48 teams, and 2030 could see the field swell to 64, but just how feasible is a tournament that size?
The possibility of expanding the World Cup to 64 teams is generating significant buzz in the soccer world, and for good reason. With the 2026 tournament set to feature 48 teams, a further increase to 64 would be a massive undertaking, requiring significant changes to the competition format, scheduling, and infrastructure. For fans, a larger tournament could mean more matches, more drama, and more opportunities for underdog teams to make a deep run.
However, there are also concerns about the feasibility of such an expansion. A 64-team tournament would likely require a significant increase in the number of matches played, which could lead to logistical challenges, player fatigue, and increased costs. Additionally, there are questions about the quality of play, as a larger field could lead to more mismatches and diluted competition. For the tour industry, a larger World Cup could mean increased demand for travel and accommodations, but also potential challenges in terms of infrastructure and crowd management.
As the soccer world waits to see if FIFA will indeed expand the World Cup to 64 teams, there are several things to watch. Will FIFA be able to address concerns about the quality of play and logistical challenges? How will a larger tournament impact the fan experience, and what implications will it have for the tour industry? With the 2030 World Cup on the horizon, all eyes will be on FIFA's decision-making process, and tour operators, fans, and players alike will be eagerly awaiting the outcome.
Originally reported by espn.com. TourNews adds analysis for sports & fitness readers.