FIFA is once again considering changes to its World Cup tournaments. The sport’s world governing body will expand the number of participating teams to 48 ahead of the 2026 competition in North America. This could change the way the group stage plays out.
Reports surfaced earlier in the month suggesting that FIFA would change the entire group stage format. World Cups have consisted of four-team groups since the introduction of 32 teams in 1998. Two of the four nations in each group advance to the knockout rounds in this current formula.
Recent rumors suggested that FIFA would, however, opt to go with groups of three teams for the next tournament. This would essentially change the entire format of the group stage. It will most likely also spell the end of simultaneous group stage matches.
Infantino fan of the groups of four teams
However, FIFA president Gianni Infantino has now stated that the organization may abandon these plans. Speaking during a press conference on Friday, Infantino praised the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. He also applauded the current format of the group stage.
“Here the groups of four have been absolutely incredible,” said Infantino. “Until the last minute of the last game you wouldn’t know who’s going through.”
“We have to review or at least re-discuss the format. This is something that will certainly be on the agenda for the next meeting.”
FIFA chief says 2022 World Cup ‘best ever’
In addition to praising the excitement of the four-team groups, Infantino also called the current World Cup the best of all time. “Thank you to everyone involved, Qatar, all the volunteers to make this the best World Cup ever,” Infantino said.
“It has been an incredible success, approaching five billion in terms of viewing figures. The encounter of the fans with the Arab world has been very important for the future of all of us”.
Although Infantino also called the 2018 World Cup the greatest of all time, there’s no mistaking the excitement on the pitch during the 2022 version. Soccer fans around the world hope FIFA won’t play with the format. of the group stage before the 2026 World Cup in North America.
Photo credit: IMAGO/ANP
