UEFA likely to accepts FIFA’s proposal to expand Club World Cup to 48 teams

The Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) is leaning toward supporting FIFA’s plan to expand the 2029 Club World Cup to 48 teams, according to reports.

The Guardian reports that UEFA’s shift comes amid improved relations between FIFA President Gianni Infantino and UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin.

Previously, European authorities had resisted the expansion, concerned it might diminish the prestige of the Champions League.

Now, UEFA appears open to backing the proposal, provided the tournament is not staged every two years.

If approved, the changes would significantly benefit European clubs, increasing their allocated spots from 12 to 16 for the 2029 edition.

The move also aims to give more top European teams the chance to compete, following the absence of major clubs such as Barcelona, Liverpool, and Manchester United from the first 32-team edition held in the United States.

Reports also highlight Morocco and Spain as the leading candidates to host the expanded tournament.