Former "Spartak" and USSR national team goalkeeper Anzor Kavazashvili does not support FIFA's decision to increase the number of teams participating in the final stage of the World Cup. He shared his thoughts in an interview with the online publication "Euro-Football.Ru".
"You know, to be honest, FIFA is doing everything possible to increase its financial revenue. The more teams there are, the higher the income from sponsors.
Additionally, broadcasts will be distributed to more countries, and fees will be collected for them. This is a strategy implemented to earn significant profits.
It’s as if FIFA is not already a very wealthy organization. However, nowadays, a lot of mediocre countries are entering the World Cup.
This is a step taken to increase the global capitalization of football. The number of teams has been expanded to such an extent that three countries had to unite to host the tournament.
If they were to hold it in one country, it wouldn't be possible to manage all the matches. This serves only commercial purposes.
In my opinion, commerce is a good thing. Yet, it deeply disappoints me that mediocre teams that are not worthy of participating at the World Cup are taking part.
I will not name specific teams because I do not want anyone to be upset with me," said Kavazashvili. It is worth noting that the 2026 World Cup will take place in the United States, Mexico, and Canada from June 11 to July 19.
A record number of teams—48 national teams—will participate in the tournament.
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