Football/Soccer 24 Hours

Last updated: July 21, 2026, 11:30 AM ET

World Cup Fallout and Future Plans

LaLiga president Javier Tebas has strongly criticized FIFA president Gianni Infantino, calling for his resignation and warning that an expansion of the World Cup to 64 teams would further damage the sport. CONMEBOL's president has also indicated that the 2030 World Cup will feature 64 teams 64-team tournament, a move that UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin boycotted the recent World Cup final in protest against FIFA's governance. Meanwhile, bookmakers have already named Spain as the favorite to win the 2030 World Cup. The 2026 World Cup, which featured a record 308 goals across 104 games and three host countries, will be remembered for various moments, with Spain ultimately crowned champions. Argentina's performance, despite falling in the final, has been defended by midfielder Enzo Fernández, though goalkeeper Emi Martinez is considering his international future. Lionel Messi, who was visibly emotional after the final loss, will take time off before rejoining Inter Miami CF. FIFA has opened an investigation into the post-final trouble involving Argentina, and counterfeit shirts worth over £18 million were seized in the UK during the tournament