FIFA President Gianni Infantino’s suggestion that the World Cup could eventually expand to 64 teams has reignited one of football’s biggest debates. Critics argue that another expansion would dilute the competition, weaken the qualifying process and create major logistical challenges for host nations. Supporters believe it would make the World Cup more representative of the global game and give more countries the opportunity to compete on football’s biggest stage. Whatever FIFA ultimately decides, the first 48-team World Cup has given Infantino something he did not have before: evidence.

Every nation should be allowed to dream of participating in the World Cup, FIFA President told

The competition has been expanded to a 48-team format for the current 2026 finals, with FIFA now considering adding a further 16 nations.