New Delhi: As the 2026 World Cup nears its climax, talks about the next round have already begun. FIFA President Gianni Infantino confirmed on Sunday that the football body is set to discuss the expansion of the men’s World Cup to 64 teams following the 2026 edition. This year, the world’s biggest football tournament expanded from 32 teams, making the 2026 World Cup in the US, Canada and Mexico the first to feature 48 teams.
“When you organise a World Cup, it’s important that you organise it for the whole world. It’s not just Europe and South America, but the entire world, effectively. Every nation should be able to dream of taking part in the World Cup,” The FIFA President told Swiss broadcaster Blue Sport. “If you don’t give smaller countries a chance to participate in the World Cup, they’ll lack the incentive to keep improving.”
The 2030 World Cup is set to be a tri-continental event, spanning across six countries — Uruguay, Argentina, Paraguay, Morocco, Portugal, and Spain. Expanding the tournament to 64 teams will take the tournament to a grand scale never seen before.
The South American countries will each host a single opening match to celebrate the FIFA World Cup’s 100th anniversary.
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What does it mean for India?
For Indian football, a jump to 64 teams would definitely increase qualification opportunities. With more open slots available, teams like India would face a more realistic pathway. However, the team’s struggles underscore the need for structural change. Despite being the most populated country on the planet, India’s absence from the FIFA 2026 World Cup has intensified calls for better governance and infrastructure.
The on-field results have left much to be desired, as the senior team has been struggling in qualifiers and even losing to regional rivals like Bangladesh. A bigger tournament could provide the extra exposure that has been much needed. Positive signs already exist, as the U-15 team from India’s Minerva Academy recently triumphed at the Helsinki Cup, demonstrating that youth pipelines can deliver when properly supported.
“The biggest problem is that our system does not understand the stature of these cups,” Ranjit Bajaj, the founder of Minerva Academy Football Club, had earlier told ThePrint. “If our players have to reach that level, they need to compete in these tournaments. Unless they play against the best, it won’t be possible.”
The difference between Indian players and foreign players is not visible at the early stages, but emerges over time, he said, adding, “Till 15 or 16, there is no real difference. The gap comes in the next few years—when foreign players get better exposure, diet and training. That’s where we fall behind.”
The Blue Tigers continue to play friendlies, including upcoming matches in New Zealand, while youth teams show promise. A 64-team format could serve as a timely opportunity, offering India not just more chances to qualify but a clear target to rally around. It would reward investment in development and give fans renewed belief that the World Cup dream is within reach.
While the chance exists, the onus lies on the All India Football Federation (AIFF) and concerned authorities to make timely structural changes, allocate appropriate funds and capitalise on this potential opportunity. As FIFA weighs the proposal, Indian authorities have a window to align policies with this potential new reality.
(Edited by Saptak Datta)