Word is that big changes are coming to the world’s most popular football tournament. In 2026, the number of participating teams in the FIFA World Cup may increase from 32 to 48, and the original 8 groups will be increased to 12 groups. If so, it would be the most inclusive tournament since FIFA first organized the World Cup in 1930.
▶ If the system does change, how will this provide impact?
★-★ There is no doubt that more candidates for the World Cup will make more dreams come true and more teams will make history. And, it will also motivate younger kids to delve into the sport. There are many smaller nations that have not yet participated in the quadrennial World Cup, and such a change would make the competition more inclusive, giving them an opportunity.
☹ But the increase in the number of teams may not have much impact. On the contrary, because of the increase in the participation of countries, the media spotlight will be more concentrated on those outstanding countries. Those who are familiar with the historical events of the World Cup will know: so far, European and South American teams have won all 21 World Cup championships, of which European teams have won 12 times and South American teams have won 9 times. Brazil is the most successful team, with 5 World Cup titles. No other continent in history has won the final.
▶ Each World Cup’s number of participants:
- 1930: 13 teams
- 1934:16 teams
- 1938: 15 teams
- 1950: 13 teams
- 1954-1978: 16 teams
- 1982-1994: 24 teams
- 1998-2022: 32 teams
- 2026: 48 teams
