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Friday, March 08, 2019, 10:58
FIFA council to assess 2022 WC expansion study next week
By Associated Press
Friday, March 08, 2019, 10:58 By Associated Press

FIFA President Gianni Infantino holds the official ball of the upcoming Women's Soccer World Championship as he poses for photographers during a press conference at the end of an executive committee meeting in Rome, Feb 27, 2019. (GREGORIO BORGIA / AP PHOTO)

An agenda for FIFA's ruling council says plans to expand the 2022 World Cup to 48 teams will be assessed at next week's meeting.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has said fast-tracking the increase which was due to start at the 2026 tournament, would require using additional countries beyond Qatar.

Qatar's infrastructure is already stretched for the Middle East's first World Cup, currently scheduled for 32 teams playing 64 games in 28 days

ALSO READ: FIFA explores Kuwait, Oman as 2022 WC co-hosts

Qatar's infrastructure is already stretched for the Middle East's first World Cup, currently scheduled for 32 teams playing 64 games in 28 days.

To fit in 16 additional games, FIFA is looking at using Kuwait and Oman, a person with knowledge of the situation told The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because the talks are confidential.

READ MORE: FIFA's record finances reignites World Cup pay parity debate

FIFA council members are yet to be provided with the feasibility study on World Cup expansion that will be discussed on March 15 in Miami.

The council will also discuss Infantino's desire to expand the Club World Cup and launch a Global Nations League, plans that have stalled amid European opposition.

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