FIFA President Gianni Infantino sparked controversy with a joking remark about expanding the World Cup to 64 teams, following Italy’s failure to qualify for the tournament. The comment, made in Guadalajara, alluded to the possibility of more frequent qualification for nations that consistently struggle to reach the finals. Italy, absent from the 2018 and 2022 World Cups after losing a playoff, reacted strongly to the suggestion. Italian media and officials perceived the remark as insensitive and dismissive of the competitive process. The expanded 48-team format, set to debut in 2026, was intended to increase global inclusivity, but this incident highlights tensions surrounding qualification standards. Infantino’s comments have fueled debate about the balance between wider participation and maintaining the prestige of World Cup qualification. The situation underscores the disappointment felt by nations like Italy that have been excluded from recent tournaments.