FIFA President Gianni Infantino said FIFA will discuss expanding the men's World Cup to 64 teams after the 2026 edition. He said every nation should have the chance to dream of qualifying, while stressing global football development. The proposal, first suggested by CONMEBOL, has drawn mixed reactions over its impact on the tournament and football calendar.

Zurich: FIFA President Gianni Infantino has confirmed that world football's governing body will discuss the possibility of expanding the men's FIFA World Cup to 64 teams after the 2026 edition, saying every nation should have the opportunity to dream of competing on football's biggest stage, according to ESPN.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is being jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico and saw a major expansion as it becomes the first edition to feature 48 teams, up from the previous 32-team format.

Infantino said FIFA would hold discussions on a further expansion to 64 teams following the conclusion of the 2026 tournament.

"This is certainly an issue that will be looked at and discussed in the relevant committees after this World Cup," FIFA's president told Swiss broadcaster Blue Sport when asked about the possibility of a 64-team tournament, as quoted by ESPN.