FIFA announced that the 2022 World Cup will feature 32 teams as planned, thus scrapping the plan to expand it to 48.
According to the release, FIFA president Gianni Infantino has shelved the plans to expand the tournament due to be played in Qatar to 48 teams due to feasibility issues.
“Following a thorough and comprehensive consultation process with the involvement of all the relevant stakeholders, it was concluded that under the current circumstances such a proposal could not be made now,” FIFA said.
Since more time will be required to assess potential logistical impact on the host country, a decision could not be taken before the deadline of June.
Therefore, there will be no change in the format for the next World Cup at least. The 2026 World Cup in Mexico, The United States and Canada could be the first event to feature 48 teams.
