The 2026 FIFA World Cup saw significant changes, including its first expansion since 1998 to 48 teams. While the expansion generally improved the tournament by allowing more potential "Cinderella" teams and compelling stories, the logistics created awkwardness, with two-thirds of third-place teams advancing. This led to less dramatic final group stage matches as teams often settled for draws. FIFA's initial plan for 48 teams with 16 groups of three was worse, as teams would only play two matches.

The article grades the 48-team expansion as an A+, acknowledging that while FIFA's motivation is profit, the larger field made for a better tournament. However, the article grades the dynamic ticket pricing as a D-, calling it the "most spiritually bankrupt change." FIFA president Gianni Infantino declared the event would be "104 Super Bowls," leading to exponentially expensive ticket prices that priced out many, though most tickets were still sold, with 6,810,966 purchased.

Looking ahead, FIFA is considering a further expansion to 64 teams. The article suggests this could be logistically manageable, especially with the 2030 tournament's multi-nation hosting. While a 64-team field might stretch quality thin, it could offer more opportunities for surprising teams. The author also notes that FIFA has a history of expanding tournaments and rarely shrinking them.