FIFA has started a consultation process on a proposal to expand the men’s World Cup from 48 teams to 64. According to documents reported by ESPN and referenced by both outlets, FIFA is collecting input before making a final decision. The materials indicate that FIFA could reach a decision by August 14. The proposal would represent a significant change from the current format and would affect how many teams qualify and how the tournament is structured.
Both reports frame the consultation as an official step in FIFA’s internal process rather than an announcement of a guaranteed change. Information Nigeria also notes that the proposed August 14 timeframe comes shortly before FIFA President Gianni Infantino’s own September deadline for FIFA’s 211 member associations, suggesting FIFA is aligning the next steps in its decision-making calendar. Overall, the sources agree that the process is underway and that an eventual decision is expected in mid-August, subject to FIFA’s review of the consultations and submissions.
