La Liga President Javier Tebas has strongly criticized FIFA, claiming that its recent decisions are putting the global football industry at risk. Speaking in an interview with an Italian sports newspaper, Tebas argued that football’s governing body is making choices that prioritize major tournaments over the long term health of domestic leagues.
One of his biggest concerns is the discussion about expanding the 2030 FIFA World Cup to 64 teams. According to Tebas, such a move would place even greater pressure on an already crowded football calendar. He believes that domestic competitions, which provide year round entertainment, employment, and financial stability, would suffer the most if international tournaments continue to expand.
The proposal for a 64 team World Cup was mentioned by FIFA President Gianni Infantino during the opening ceremony of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The centenary edition of the tournament in 2030 is scheduled to be hosted mainly by Spain, Portugal, and Morocco, while Argentina, Uruguay, and Paraguay will stage selected matches to celebrate the competition’s 100th anniversary.
Tebas also questioned the leadership of Infantino, saying the current system within FIFA has allowed him to remain in power for nearly a decade without enough accountability. He argued that football should not revolve around one tournament, no matter how prestigious it may be. Instead, he believes stronger protection is needed for domestic leagues that support clubs, players, employees, and local communities throughout the season.
The La Liga chief warned that expanding international competitions could negatively affect player welfare and the financial sustainability of clubs. He stressed that domestic leagues are the foundation of professional football and generate thousands of jobs across the world. According to Tebas, reducing the number of international matches rather than increasing them would help maintain a healthier balance between club and international football.
As debate continues over the future of the 2030 FIFA World Cup, Tebas has urged football authorities to make decisions that protect the long term interests of the sport instead of focusing solely on expanding global tournaments.
