Will the World Cup 2034 Have a Round of 32?

The FIFA World Cup has never been static. Since 1930, the competition has grown with the game itself, starting with just 13 nations in Uruguay, expanding to 16 for decades, then 24 in 1982, and finally 32 in 1998. Each change reflected football’s new realities: more nations playing the game, more fans demanding representation, and FIFA’s ever-growing ambition.

Now, with FIFA already moving to 48 teams for the 2026 World Cup, the tournament is set to enter a new age. The format change introduces a Round of 32, making the path to glory longer and more dramatic. The real question is: by 2034, when Saudi Arabia hosts the event, will the Round of 32 become the new normal?

How the Current Format Works

To understand 2034, we must first look at 2026. For the first time, 48 nations will compete, divided into 12 groups of 4. The top two teams from each group, plus the eight best third-placed sides, will qualify for a brand-new Round of 32 knockout stage.

This means:

More matches (104 instead of the current 64).
More nations represented—particularly from Asia and Africa.
More high-stakes knockout football that fans crave.

The Round of 32 is designed to make the World Cup bigger, more inclusive, and more dramatic. But is it sustainable for the long run?

Saudi Arabia 2034: A Stage for Expansion

Saudi Arabia, the host of the 2034 World Cup, is preparing not just to stage football matches but to showcase itself to the world. The Kingdom has already invested billions in infrastructure, stadiums, tourism projects, and sporting events. The World Cup is their crown jewel—an opportunity to prove that the Middle East can deliver the biggest sporting event on the planet.

For such a host nation, a Round of 32 format is almost certain. It guarantees more games, more visitors, and more global attention. In fact, Saudi Arabia is likely to push for the continuation of this structure because it benefits both FIFA and the host.

Why the Round of 32 Makes Sense

The Round of 32 is more than just a format—it is a strategic move by FIFA.

Global Inclusion
Nations that historically never had a chance to qualify will now see opportunities. Imagine seeing teams like Jordan, Uzbekistan, or perhaps even Bangladesh making the group stage and advancing to the knockout rounds—it would electrify entire regions.
Commercial Value
Every extra match is worth millions in broadcasting rights, sponsorships, and tourism revenue. A Round of 32 adds 16 more knockout matches, each carrying high drama.
Player Showcases
Smaller football nations get the stage to show their talent against world-class teams. For example, think of how Senegal’s run in 2002 or Morocco’s dream in 2022 inspired millions—expansion creates more such possibilities.
Fan Engagement
Knockout football is emotional. The sudden-death nature makes fans watch every second. A Round of 32 doubles brings that excitement.

The Other Side of the Debate

Of course, critics argue that bigger is not always better. Expanding too much could bring challenges:

Player Fatigue: The calendar is already crowded. By 2034, players may have no breathing space between club football and the World Cup.
Quality Concerns: More teams mean a greater chance of one-sided matches, where weaker nations struggle against traditional powerhouses.
Tournament Length: A World Cup lasting over a month could test fan patience and logistical systems.
Costs: Hosting so many games is expensive—stadiums, hotels, transport—all must be world-class. Saudi Arabia can afford it, but not every future host might.

Lessons From the Past

History shows that expansion is often controversial—until it succeeds. When FIFA expanded to 24 teams in 1982, critics said the quality would drop, but it gave the world magical stories like Cameroon in 1990. When the tournament reached 32 teams in 1998, skeptics worried again, but it produced unforgettable moments like Senegal beating France in 2002 and Croatia’s rise in 2018.

By 2034, the Round of 32 may feel natural, just as the 32-team format now feels timeless.

The Saudi Arabian Context

The 2034 World Cup will be more than football—it will be a statement. Saudi Arabia is undergoing massive transformation under its Vision 2030 program, aiming to diversify its economy and promote itself as a global destination. Hosting the World Cup fits perfectly into that strategy.

Infrastructure: The Kingdom is building futuristic cities like NEOM, which may host matches.
Tourism: Millions of fans will flood the country, giving it global exposure.
Culture: For the first time, fans from every corner of the globe will experience Saudi traditions alongside world football.

For Saudi Arabia, a Round of 32 is not a challenge—it’s an opportunity.

What It Means for Smaller Nations

One of the most beautiful aspects of the Round of 32 is how it opens the door for underdogs. Imagine the scenes if Palestine qualifies and makes it to the knockout stage in Saudi Arabia. Picture an Asian or African nation reaching the quarterfinals or even semifinals.

For fans in regions that have always been outsiders in global football, the Round of 32 means dreams are possible.

The Likely Answer

So, will the 2034 World Cup have a Round of 32?
The answer is almost certainly yes. FIFA has already tested the waters with 2026, and the structure serves its goals perfectly—commercial growth, inclusivity, and fan engagement. With Saudi Arabia’s resources and ambition, the Round of 32 will not only survive but thrive in 2034.

Conclusion

The World Cup has always reflected the times. In 1930, it was a small tournament for a handful of nations. By 2034, it will be a global festival, with 48 nations competing, millions traveling, and billions watching. The Round of 32 will define this new era, creating more stories, more drama, and more heroes.

From Riyadh to Rio, from India to Dakar, the world will come together in Saudi Arabia to witness history. And when the Round of 32 kicks off, the world will realize—it was never just about expansion. It was about football’s promise: that anyone, from anywhere, can dream.

FAQs

1. Will the 2034 World Cup have a Round of 32?

Yes. FIFA’s new 48-team format, debuting in 2026, includes a Round of 32 and is expected to continue in 2034.

2. How does the Round of 32 work?

48 teams are split into 12 groups. The top two from each group + 8 best third-placed teams advance to a 32-team knockout stage.

3. Why did FIFA add this round?

To increase global inclusion, fan engagement, and revenue—while giving smaller nations more chances to shine.

4. Are there any downsides?

Yes. Concerns include longer tournaments, player fatigue, and potential mismatches between teams.

5. Is Saudi Arabia ready for the new format?

Yes. With massive investments in infrastructure and tourism, Saudi Arabia is well-positioned to host the expanded World Cup.