FIFA President Gianni Infantino addresses the media during a press conference following the FIFA Council Meetings in Miami, Florida, on March 19, 2019. AFP / Rhona Wise
Doha: FIFA recommended Friday that the number of teams participating in the World Cup 2022 in Qatar be lifted to 48 from 32, during the FIFA Council’s ninth meeting that was held in Miami.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino said that he believes the proposition was feasible, and added that FIFA continues to examine its options.
“If it happens, fantastic. If it doesn’t happen, fantastic also,” he said in the press conference. He also said that FIFA will make a decision on the subject before its meeting in Paris in June.
He also revealed FIFA’s decision to launch a revamped world club competition that includes 24 teams starting 2021. The announcement was made despite the objection of the European Clubs Association, which represents 232 clubs. The association confirmed it will not participate in the competition.
Last Summer’s World Cup saw the introduction of VAR technology for the first time ever.
FIFA has already agreed to increase the number of World Cup participants to 48 starting with the 2026 edition, set to take place in the U.S., Mexico, and Canada. This will increase the number of matches from 64 to 84.
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Credit: QNA I The Peninsula Online
Date – Time:15 Mar 2019 – 23:33
Source URL:https://thepeninsulaqatar.com/article/15/03/2019/FIFA-recommends-expanding-Qatar-2022-to-48-teams