The United States could consider a bid to host the 2038 World Cup, according to Andrew Giuliani, executive director of the White House’s World Cup task force. The comments come as Fifa weighs expanding the tournament to 64 teams. For England, still focused on the 2026 World Cup, the news reshapes the long-term picture: more places at the finals mean a wider path for the next generations of the Three Lions chasing a first trophy since 1966.
USA Already Confident About a 64-Team World Cup
The United States says it can handle a World Cup expanded to 64 teams. “When you think that this World Cup may at some point expand out to 64 teams, I think the United States can handle it,” said Andrew Giuliani, executive director of the White House task force. The country is already co-hosting the 2026 edition with Canada and Mexico, a tournament expanded from 32 to 48 teams.
Before looking ahead to 2038, Giuliani urged patience: “Let me make sure we get through this World Cup.” Even so, the message is clear: American infrastructure, proven in 1994 and again in 2026, offers a strong base for an even bigger tournament.
64 Teams as Early as 2030: What Changes for England
A 64-team format would nearly double the field compared with 2018. For England, that means a statistically easier qualification and more high-level matches to blood young talent. Fifa has suggested the change could arrive as early as 2030.
More places also mean a longer, more demanding tournament. Regulars at the finals, the Three Lions would need to manage squad fitness across an extended schedule. The proposal already splits opinion, with European bodies warning the expansion could dilute quality.
Why 2038 Arrives Sooner Than England Thinks
Between the 2026 World Cup in North America and a possible 2038 edition back in the United States, England will have turned over at least two generations. Jude Bellingham, a current cornerstone, would be 35 in 2038 — meaning much of that squad will be players who have not yet made their senior debuts.
For the FA, the priority is clear: sustain a talent pipeline able to cope with an ever-busier international calendar. A 64-team World Cup rewards nations with strength in depth, and England remain among the best-resourced footballing countries in the world.
FAQ
Will the United States host the 2038 World Cup?
Nothing is official, but Andrew Giuliani, director of the White House task force, has indicated the US could consider a bid for the 2038 World Cup. The country is already co-hosting the 2026 edition.
How many teams will play at the 2038 World Cup?
Fifa is considering expanding the tournament to 64 teams, possibly as early as 2030. The 2026 World Cup already features 48 teams, up from 32 in previous editions.
Will England be at the 2038 World Cup?
It is too early to say, but a 64-team format would make qualification statistically more likely. New generations of players will represent the Three Lions by then.
Is expanding the World Cup to 64 teams a good idea?
The plan divides opinion: it gives more places to smaller nations but worries European federations, who fear a drop in quality and an overloaded calendar.
Where will the 2026 World Cup be held?
The 2026 edition is co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, with 48 teams split into 12 groups.
🏆 AI Analysis – World Cup 2026
Mysports AI uses advanced data models to deliver the best odds, dark horse analysis and betting tips.
Get predictions