The FIFA Council on Tuesday has approved the expansion of the football World Cup from a 32-team event to a 48-team event from the 2026 edition. The move, welcomed by many as 'inclusive', will be the first structural change to the tournament since 1998 when participation was increased from 24 to 32.

Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho has voiced his support for an expanded World Cup tournament as it would help develop the sport across the world given the clubs and players are not burdened. Mourinho also felt that the video referral system is required to protect the referees from criticism.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has said that the proposals for a 32, 40 or 48-team World Cup in 2026 were still on the table and that a larger tournament would not mean a drop in quality. Infantino also said that the FIFA is trying to streamline ticketing prices with its sponsors for the 2022 WC.