FIFA has given up on its efforts to expand the 2022 World Cup to 48 teams, according to a person with knowledge of the situation.
FIFA has given up on its efforts to expand the 2022 World Cup to 48 teams, football’s world governing body announced on Wednesday.
“In line with the conclusions of the feasibility study approved by the FIFA Council at its last meeting, FIFA and Qatar have jointly explored all possibilities to increase the number of participant teams from 32 to 48 teams by involving neighbouring countries at the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022,” a FIFA statement read on Thursday.
“Following a thorough and comprehensive consultation process with the involvement of all the relevant stakeholders, it was concluded that under the current circumstances such a proposal could not be made now.
– Marcotti’s March Q&A: Why FIFA wanted a 48-team World Cup- #FCdebate: Is a 48-team World Cup a good or bad idea?
“Additionally, FIFA and Qatar have once again explored the feasibility of Qatar hosting a 48-team tournament by in particular lowering certain key FIFA requirements. A joint analysis, in this respect, concluded that due to the advanced stage of preparations and the need for a detailed assessment of the potential logistical impact on the host country, more time would be required and a decision could not be taken before the deadline of June.
