By Daily Sports on January 11, 2017

The Football Association has stressed FIFA must take into account the wishes of players, supporters and leagues before formalising plans for a new-look World Cup finals.

FIFA's Council has unanimously approved President Gianni Infantino's plan for a 48-team World Cup finals.

The new structure, featuring 16 groups of three followed by a 32-team knockout, is scheduled to be implemented in time for the 2026 finals and the proposal is scheduled to be discussed "over the course of [the Council's] next meetings".

The English FA said: "Following today's FIFA Council decision, we will work with UEFA, FIFA and the other European associations to understand how the 48-team FIFA World Cup will work.

"The priority has to be consideration of the potential impact on fans, players, teams and leagues, and also recognition of the importance of sporting integrity and commercial viability.

Infantino says the expansion of the World Cup to 48 teams is needed to make the tournament relevant in the 21st century

Infantino says the expansion of the World Cup to 48 teams is needed to make the tournament relevant in the 21st century

"In terms of the allocation of places, we note that further discussions will follow across the confederations and would expect a proper consultation process to be carried out before any decision is made."

Infantino is already facing a revolt from Spain's La Liga over the plans, but the Scottish Football Association have given the idea of an expanded tournament their backing, calling the move a "positive" one.

Chief executive Stewart Regan said: "We are pleased with the news that the FIFA World Cup will expand to 48 teams from 2026.

"We believe this is a positive step, particularly for the smaller nations, and will allow more fans across the globe to revel in their country's participation at a FIFA World Cup finals.

"This will also allow these nations to invest further in their footballing infrastructure and youth development, which in turn can yield significant social benefits.

"A greater eclectic mix of footballing cultures at the FIFA World Cup will create a bigger and better atmosphere than ever before."

The reaction from Northern Ireland's FA was similarly positive, with president David Martin saying: "I'm in favour of any decision that gives Northern Ireland a better chance of qualifying for a World Cup.

"If the new format of the tournament gives us a greater opportunity to make the finals, then it has my support." (bbc.co.uk)

Source Daily Sports

Posted January 11, 2017

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