FIFA President Gianni Infantino has suggested that future World Cups and Club World Cups could take place in winter months, saying football must «keep an open mind» about shifting major tournaments away from the traditional summer schedule.
Speaking at the European Football Clubs General Assembly in Rome, where 900 delegates gathered, Infantino acknowledged that global climate realities and expanded competitions are forcing FIFA to reconsider the international match calendar beyond 2030.
«Even in parts of Europe, July is very, very hot,» Infantino said. «Maybe there are ways we can optimize the calendar. We just have to keep an open mind.»
The move comes as FIFA prepares for the 2034 World Cup in Saudi Arabia, which will likely be held in winter due to extreme summer heat — echoing Qatar’s 2022 schedule. FIFA has also formed a working group to review long-term scheduling challenges and global tournament alignment.
Infantino further confirmed discussions about expanding the Club World Cup, potentially introducing a 48-team format by 2029, with a qualifying stage reducing teams to 32. Spain and Morocco are front-runners to host, though the U.S. and China remain interested.
He also warned against domestic leagues staging matches abroad, calling it a «big risk» that could undermine football’s established structure.
Meanwhile, the assembly saw Barcelona officially return to the organization after years of absence following the failed Super League project — a move that signals a further step away from that controversial breakaway plan.
