FIFA has announced a unique format for the 2030 World Cup, which will be held across six countries: Uruguay, Argentina, Paraguay, Morocco, Portugal, and Spain. This will be the first men's World Cup to span three continents.

According to FIFA's proposed schedule, centenary matches will take place on June 8-9 in Uruguay, Argentina, and Paraguay. The main opening ceremony and first matches are expected on June 13-14 in Morocco, Portugal, and Spain. The final is scheduled for July 21, though the full calendar has yet to be confirmed.

The majority of the tournament will be hosted by Spain, Portugal, and Morocco. To mark the 100th anniversary, Uruguay, Argentina, and Paraguay will each stage one opening-round match. Uruguay was chosen for hosting the inaugural 1930 World Cup, Argentina as the runner-up of that tournament, and Paraguay as the home of CONMEBOL.

Six host nations have automatically qualified: Spain, Portugal, Morocco, Uruguay, Argentina, and Paraguay. The remaining 42 spots will be determined through FIFA's continental qualifying tournaments.

Teams playing in the three South American matches will receive additional time for travel, rest, and preparation. After the centenary fixtures, the remaining group games will begin on June 15-16.

The 2030 World Cup will feature 48 teams, the same format introduced at the 2026 tournament in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. However, FIFA President Gianni Infantino has stated that a proposal to expand to 64 teams will be examined. He described the 48-team format as a "huge success," emphasizing the importance of giving smaller football nations opportunities.

The 2034 men's FIFA World Cup will be hosted by Saudi Arabia, confirmed by FIFA in December 2024 as the sole bidder.

Source: www.aljazeera.com