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FIFA President Proposes 64-Team World Cup Expansion

9/24/2025

31 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) President Gianni Infantino proposed expanding the 2030 World Cup to 64 teams, led by South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL).
Santiago Peña (Paraguay) and Yamandú Orsi (Uruguay) attended; Javier Milei (Argentina) was absent for a Trump meeting.
Expansion could reach 128 matches; final decisions require FIFA Council approval; hosting spans six nations with centenary fixtures.

History

Historical Context

The 1994 FIFA World Cup in the United States marked a pivotal expansion to 24 teams, generating over $500 million in revenue and highlighting the tournament's financial potential. This trend towards inclusivity continues with Gianni Infantino's proposal to expand the 2030 World Cup to 64 teams, aiming to enhance global participation and engagement in international football.

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Story summary

Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) President Gianni Infantino proposed expanding the 2030 World Cup to 64 teams, led by South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL).
Santiago Peña (Paraguay) and Yamandú Orsi (Uruguay) attended; Javier Milei (Argentina) was absent for a Trump meeting.
Expansion could reach 128 matches; final decisions require FIFA Council approval; hosting spans six nations with centenary fixtures.

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