FIFA president suggests 16 groups in 48-team World Cup
LONDON — FIFA President Gianni Infantino has suggested having 16 three-team groups if the World Cup expands to 48 countries.
Members of the FIFA Council received a recommendation from world soccer’s governing body setting out five proposed formats for its showpiece event from 2026 — two 48-team team options, two 40-team options and sticking at 32.
48 TEAMS
Infantino first advocated a new, opening playoff round for 32 of the 48 finalists.