FIFA Weighs Expanding Club World Cup to 48 Teams After World Cup Format Success

FIFA is considering a major expansion of the Club World Cup after being encouraged by the 48-team format used in the 2026 World Cup in the Americas. According to The Guardian, the governing body now wants the summer club tournament to mirror that structure and include 48 participants as well.

FIFA has already reached a cooperation agreement with the European Club Association, and the move is expected to increase the number of European teams in the competition. That would also give more Premier League clubs a chance to qualify for the prestigious event.

Money is a central factor behind the push. The last tournament distributed about $1 billion in prize money, plus roughly $250 million in solidarity payments to clubs that did not take part. Chelsea, the champions, reportedly earned about $115 million.

Analysts expect a 48-team format could lift the total prize pool to between $1.2 billion and $1.5 billion, helped by higher broadcast revenue, sponsorships, and ticket sales. FIFA believes greater participation from elite clubs such as Liverpool, Arsenal, Barcelona, and Manchester City would significantly boost the tournament’s commercial value and global audience. Formal talks on the new format are expected to begin soon, with 48 teams seen as the leading option for the Club World Cup.