Fifa appears to have fast-tracked its plans to expand the World Cup to 64 teams, with the goal of implementing the new format for the 2030 edition. This move comes amid ongoing controversy surrounding Fifa President Gianni Infantino's proposal to sell off stakes in the tournament to private investors.
A private document, initially reported by The Times, indicates that Fifa issued a brief on Thursday, July 30, for an independent agency to assess a further World Cup expansion. The analysis is intended to evaluate tournament revenue and the impact on the wider football ecosystem, including brands, broadcasters, and federations.
The world football governing body has faced significant pushback on its Fifa Forward Enterprise (FFE) commercial entity. Uefa has confirmed it will boycott Fifa competitions, including the next World Cup, if the privatisation plans proceed. Concacaf and the Asian Football Confederation have also officially rejected the proposal.
Fifa expects to receive agency proposals for the expansion study by August 7, with a decision slated for August 14. The delivery of the full analysis by the chosen agency is scheduled for September 11. Fifa has previously stated it will continue its consultation period regarding the sell-off plan ahead of a vote on September 19.