Wenger: Expanding World Cup to 48 Teams Was an Ethical Necessity

Arsène Wenger, FIFA's Chief of Global Football Development, confirmed that the decision to increase the number of teams participating in the World Cup to 48 was not merely a change in the tournament's format, but was based on the principle of fairness in representing different continents.

Wenger stated: "Raising the number of teams participating in the World Cup to 48 was a moral necessity, as some continental federations were not adequately represented."

The legendary former Arsenal manager explained that the new system provides a greater number of national teams the chance to showcase themselves on the world stage, contributing to the growth and development of football in regions that previously had limited opportunities to participate in the World Cup.

The 2026 World Cup, hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, will be the first edition in the tournament's history to feature 48 teams instead of 32. FIFA officials assert that this move aims to broaden the competitive base and provide more countries the opportunity to participate in the world's biggest football event.