By Daily Mail (U.S.) | Created at 2026-07-31 13:37:17 | Updated at 2026-08-10 15:25:18
1 week ago
FIFA have issued a research brief to explore expanding the men's World Cup to 64 teams just two days after plans to sell stakes in the tournament were leaked.
The brief invites agencies to assess the commercial opportunity, potential impacts, acceptance thresholds, decision safeguards, host nation appetite and revenue implications of increasing the tournament by a further 16 teams.
While FIFA says fan research may be included, it specifies that supporter opinion should not be the primary focus of the study.
The research brief was shared with prospective agencies yesterday. FIFA has requested proposals by August 7 and is expected to decide on the successful bid seven days later.
An expanded World Cup would suit private investors with more teams and matches, increasing revenue opportunities.
