FIFA Faces Strong Backlash Against Possible 64-Team World Cup Expansion Plan: ‘Going to Be Weird’

“More games, more excitement, and more teams”—This is how FIFA described the expansion of the 2026 World Cup from ideally 32 to 48 teams. Eyebrows were raised by many over the apex soccer federation conducting over 104 matches, followed by the addition of another knockout round. But anyways, just when the soccer world managed to digest this initial expansion, the Gianni Infantino-led corp decided to ponder another big expansion news—how does a 64-team World Cup sound?

At least Diario Olé has reported on FIFA seriously considering this historic expansion to celebrate 100 years since the First World Cup. If implemented, this would mean adding 28 additional teams to the current 36-team format, dramatically increasing participation and representation from around the globe.

While the idea has excited some fans eager to see more nations compete on the world stage, it hasn’t sat well with many in the soccer community. Critics argue that more teams may lead to a diluted quality of play, longer schedules, and logistical challenges that could affect the tournament’s prestige.

Fan reactions have been immediate and vocal. One supporter summed it up succinctly: “More teams means more money, but will it dilute the quality? The World Cup should be elite, not inclusive.” Many worry that adding dozens of lower-ranked teams could make the group stages less competitive and erode the tournament’s historic intensity.

𝗝𝗨𝗦𝗧 𝗜𝗡: FIFA are seriously considering making the 2030 World Cup a 64-team tournament. This is to celebrate 100 years since the First World Cup.

— @DiarioOle pic.twitter.com/8jiLEA6xNZ

— The Touchline | 𝐓 (@TouchlineX) September 24, 2025

(This is a developing story…)

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