Topics: Gianni Infantino, FIFA World Cup
Some were for the move; others against, but everyone united to make hilarious jokes after the announcement.

With the jury still out on whether a winter World Cup in 2026 is a good idea, football’s biggest competition has already undergone another change. In the first expansion of the World Cup since 1998, the tournament will not have 48 teams competing – an increase from 32.

FIFA accepted the proposal to increase the number of participants in a vote in Zurich on Tuesday, with the changes due come into effect from the 2026 edition onward. 16 groups of three teams will kick-off the first round, with only 32 heading into a knockout stage.

Many were against the decision; some approved; but Twitter unanimously gathered together in creating some of the best jokes of 2017 so far after the decision. The most favorite punch line was England.

The Three Lions, the nation that always disappoint on the big stage, were ridiculed. Many couldn’t help but point out that the increase in teams will give smaller nations the chance of eliminating England.

And then there were to jokes aimed at Scotland. Now they might finally be able to qualify.

 

  

The Panini sticker book was a reoccurring theme, as more teams means an even bigger book. Others joked about not being able to buy the book once it increases in size and (probably) money.

What could be so wrong about having 48 teams? One man feels it will just open the door to boring matches between minnows.

People can’t agree yet on whether it is a good decision or bad. Whilst some believe this is the death of the World Cup, others hailed FIFA’s decision to open the door to more countries.

Of course, this change means more revenue for FIFA. Luckily for them, no one noticed...