Svetovno prvenstvo v nogometu: Fifa namerava v nekaj tednih preučiti povečanje svetovnega prvenstva

The FIFA has accelerated its review of expanding the World Cup to include 64 teams, according to reports. This comes just weeks after the previous tournament, which featured 48 nations, the largest in history, was held in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. The decision follows ongoing discussions about investor involvement and potential changes to the structure of international football competitions. FIFA President Gianni Infantino had previously hinted at further expansion during the last World Cup, and now the organization aims to assess the implications of adding more teams within a short timeframe. The process involves hiring an independent firm to evaluate the impact of increasing the number of participating nations. According to sources, this company must be selected by August 14, with results expected by September 11. The move signals a rapid push toward potentially reshaping one of the most significant sporting events globally. While no official announcement has been made yet, the Guardian reported that the initiative is already underway, indicating that FIFA is seriously considering the proposal despite the tight deadline. Infantino raised the possibility of expanding the World Cup beyond 48 teams during the previous edition, stating that the matter needed discussion among governing bodies. His comments were made amid broader debates over how to sustain interest in the tournament while managing logistical challenges such as scheduling, venue availability, and financial commitments. The idea of increasing the number of participants has long been discussed, but the current urgency suggests that FIFA is looking to formalize plans quickly. Support for the expansion comes from South America’s football confederation, CONMEBOL. Officials there believe that growing the tournament could lead to more matches being hosted on their continent during the 2030 World Cup. Currently, three games are scheduled to take place in South America, with Spain, Portugal, and Morocco set to host the majority of the event. However, if the expansion goes ahead, the number of matches played in the region could increase significantly, offering new opportunities for local fans and stakeholders. The proposed expansion raises questions about the feasibility of hosting additional teams within existing infrastructure and financial frameworks. Previous expansions have required substantial investment in stadiums, transportation, and security measures. With the next World Cup set to be co-hosted by multiple countries, the logistics of accommodating more teams would need careful planning. Some critics argue that expanding the tournament too rapidly could dilute its prestige, while others see it as a necessary step to maintain global appeal and revenue streams. FIFA's decision to expedite the evaluation reflects the pressure to adapt to evolving market demands and fan expectations. The organization faces competition from other major sports leagues and events, all vying for attention and sponsorship deals. By accelerating the assessment, FIFA aims to ensure that any changes align with both strategic goals and practical realities. The outcome of the review will influence future decisions regarding tournament formats, qualification processes, and the distribution of matches across different regions. As the evaluation period approaches, stakeholders across the football world are watching closely. National associations, broadcasters, and sponsors will all play a role in shaping the final decision. The results of the study are expected to provide clarity on whether expanding the World Cup to 64 teams is viable, and if so, how it might be implemented in the coming years. The findings will likely inform discussions at upcoming FIFA meetings, where officials will consider the next steps in the evolution of the sport’s premier competition.