Qatar may hold 2029 Club World Cup in winter, FIFA weighing expansion to 48 teams

Abdullateef Fowewe

Qatar is reportedly considering staging the 2029 FIFA Club World Cup in the winter to avoid the country’s extreme summer heat, football sources said on Friday.

FIFA is also examining a proposal to expand the tournament from 32 to 48 teams, a move that has gained traction after lobbying from European clubs seeking larger financial returns and more competitive slots.

Tournament organisers are assessing scheduling, broadcast windows and calendar impacts as they weigh the winter option alongside the expansion plan.

“The option of expanding it to 48 teams is also on the table,” sources added, noting that discussions are ongoing as stakeholders try to balance player welfare, commercial interests and the global football calendar.