Expanded Teams and Groups

One of the most notable changes is the expansion of the tournament from 32 to 48 teams¹. This increase allows more nations to participate, giving a broader range of countries the opportunity to compete on the world stage. The new format will feature 12 groups of four teams each², replacing the previous plan of 16 groups of three teams¹. This structure ensures that each team plays a minimum of three matches, maintaining the excitement and competitiveness of the group stage.

More Matches, More Excitement

With the expansion to 48 teams, the total number of matches will increase from 64 to 104³. This means more football for fans to enjoy and more opportunities for underdog stories and thrilling upsets. The top two teams from each group, along with the eight best third-placed teams, will advance to a newly introduced round of 32². This additional knockout round adds another layer of excitement and unpredictability to the tournament.

Inclusivity and Global Reach

The expanded format is a significant step towards making the World Cup more inclusive. By allowing more teams to participate, FIFA is giving smaller and less traditionally dominant footballing nations a chance to shine. This inclusivity is expected to boost the global appeal of the tournament, drawing in fans from all corners of the world and fostering a greater sense of unity and celebration of the sport.

Maintaining Competitive Balance

Despite the increase in the number of teams and matches, FIFA has ensured that the overall number of rest days and the maximum number of matches a team can play remain unchanged¹. This careful planning helps maintain the competitive balance and ensures that the tournament remains fair and exciting for all participants.