The Logistical Nightmare: Why a 128-Match World Cup is a Non-Starter

Beyond the debates about quality, a 64-team World Cup presents a logistical nightmare that FIFA is simply unwilling to entertain. The proposed format would feature 128 matches, double the number played in Qatar, a challenge that has contributed to the proposal being firmly rejected by the organization’s key decision-makers.
The idea was formally presented to FIFA President Gianni Infantino by South American football leaders, who are pushing for an expanded tournament in 2030. Their focus was on the benefits of inclusivity and the prestige of a grander centenary celebration.
However, the practical realities of hosting such an event are staggering. A 128-match tournament would require more stadiums, more training facilities, and a longer tournament window, placing an enormous strain on host nations. The 2030 World Cup is already a uniquely complex event, spread across six countries and three continents, and adding another 24 teams and 64 matches is seen as unfeasible.
This logistical challenge is a key part of the opposition within the FIFA Council. The council members are aware of the immense organizational effort required for the upcoming 48-team, 104-match tournament in 2026. The prospect of an even larger event is a non-starter.
The World Cup’s growth from 32 teams (64 matches) to 48 teams (104 matches) is already a massive leap. The further jump to 64 teams and 128 matches is viewed as a step into chaos, and FIFA has wisely chosen to avoid that logistical headache for now.