FIFA to expand World Cup to 48 teams in 2026

FIFA to expand World Cup to 48 teams in 2026  FIFA council unanimously votes to expand the soccer World Cup from 32 to 48 teams; new schedule to be implemented from 2026 World Cup.The FIFA council has unanimously decided that the football World Cup will be expanded to host 48 teams, up from 32. An initial stage of 16 groups of 3 teams will precede a knockout stage for the remaining 32

when the change is made for the 2026 tournament. The sport's world governing body voted through the change at a meeting in Zurich on Tuesday.

The number of tournament matches will rise to 80, from 64, but the eventual winners will still play only seven games. 

The tournament will be completed within 32 days - a measure to appease European clubs, who objected to reform because of a crowded international schedule. 

The changes mark the first World Cup expansion since 1998.