São Paulo – The International Federation of Footbal (FIFA) announced it will keep the original number of 32 teams for the World Cup Qatar, the first world male soccer event to be hosted by an Arab country, scheduled to November 2022. The FIFA Council intended to increase the number of participant teams for the next edition but, after a feasibility study, they decided it would not be possible. Pictured above, France celebrates the victory in the Cup 2018 Russia.
As released by the federation, an analysis concluded that due to the advanced stage of preparations and the need for a detailed assessment of the logistical impact on the host country, more time would be required, and a decision could not be taken before the deadline of June. It was therefore decided not to further pursue this option.
It is projected that the World Cup 2026, to be hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, will feature 48 teams and, given the high number of available stadiums, it is unlikely it will face logistic issues.
Translated by Guilherme Miranda