FIFA’s proposal to expand the Club World Cup to 48 teams from the 2029 edition is set to move forward with the support of UEFA, according to reports.
The current format features 32 teams, but FIFA has been open to increasing participation, particularly to include more elite European clubs after several high-profile sides, including FC Barcelona, Liverpool FC, and Manchester United, missed out on qualification under the existing structure.
Under the revised model, European representation would rise from 12 clubs to 16 in 2029, providing greater financial incentives for top teams. Last year’s edition distributed a total prize pool of £774m, with Chelsea FC earning £85m after winning the trophy.
UEFA, which had previously opposed expansion over concerns it could undermine the competitive balance and global standing of the UEFA Champions League, is now prepared to back the enlarged format.
This support is conditional on the competition not being staged every two years, a shift that reflects improved relations between FIFA president Gianni Infantino and UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin.
The reports, cited by The Guardian, indicate UEFA views the 48-team model as less disruptive than a biennial cycle, which had faced strong opposition from UEFA and domestic European leagues.
The expansion follows lobbying from European clubs and comes amid broader discussions on the international match calendar. European Leagues has launched legal action with the European Commission regarding related decisions, including those tied to the Club World Cup.
The 2029 tournament remains scheduled for June–July, though specific venues and further format details are yet to be finalized.