Overview

• FIFA vice-president Victor Montagliani said the Club World Cup format for 2029 and beyond is under review, including the size of the field and qualification rules.
• He suggested 48 teams as a possible target and raised questions about allocation and competitive balance.
• Restrictions limiting two clubs per nation are expected to be eased to allow a third English team, with UEFA not opposing that specific change.
• UEFA remains against a larger field or a biennial cycle, and the FIFA Council will discuss the tournament’s future without an imminent vote.
• To reduce heat exposure, FIFA is reworking 2026 World Cup scheduling, with matches involving major European nations likely to kick off after midnight UK time.