'FIFA to decide whether 2022 WC will have 48 teams'
Gianni Infantino stated that FIFA will decide in March 2019, whether the next edition of the football 2022 World Cup will be extended to 48 teams or not. He conceded that it was not a simple decision. Thirty-two teams had contested this year's World Cup in Russia, which was regarded as one of the most entertaining editions of the coveted tournament. Here's more.
Future editions of World Cup will have 48 teams
The world football governing body is intent on a 48-team future editions of the World Cup from the year 2026. But a decision on 2022 edition won't be known until next year. Infantino said on French TV show Telefoot, "We'll decide in March. We've already decided that future editions should feature 48 teams, we all think it's a good idea."
Qatar will be first Muslim-majority nation to host WC
Qatar will be the first nation to hold the event in the Arab world and will also be the first in a Muslim-majority country. Due to the soaring summer temperatures, the tourney will be held over November-December. Generally the WC is held in months of June and July. Three days were shortened because of the schedule. Therefore, that will play a decisive role.
FIFA exploring options for 2022 WC
"It's not easy because it will be played over 28 days, instead of 31 for a normal World Cup," said Infantino. FIFA is set to hold a meeting in Miami, where it will also decide whether neighboring countries could host some of the matches.
