FIFA have abandoned plans to increase the size of the 2022 World Cup to 48 teams.
The idea, which would have seen Qatar share hosting duties with surrounding nations, was expected to be dismissed when the FIFA congress meets in Paris next month, but an announcement was instead made on Wednesday night.
FIFA president Gianni Infantino still hopes to increase the number of participating teams from 32 to 48 for the 2026 World Cup in North America.
“In line with the conclusions of the feasibility study approved by the FIFA Council at its last meeting, FIFA and Qatar have jointly explored all possibilities to increase the number of participant teams from 32 to 48 teams by involving neighbouring countries at the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022,” read FIFA‘s statement.
“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.
“Additionally, FIFA and Qatar have once again explored the feasibility of Qatar hosting a 48-team tournament by in particular lowering certain key FIFArequirements. A joint analysis, in this respect, concluded that due to the advanced stage of preparations and the need for a detailed assessment of the potential logistical impact on the host country, more time would be required and a decision could not be taken before the deadline of June. It was therefore decided not to further pursue this option.
“The FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 will therefore remain as originally planned with 32 teams and no proposal will be submitted at the next FIFA Congress on 5 June.”
The political and logistical problems of having several host nations in the Middle East is believed to have been the deciding factor.
Source: https://www.marca.com/en/football/international-football/2019/05/22/5ce5a5e6ca4741ed628b458b.html