WORLD CUP TEAMS REJECT CEFERIN'S CRITICISM OF EXPANDED FORMAT

World Cup teams have rejected remarks attributed to Aleksander Ceferin regarding the 2026 finals expansion. Ceferin, Uefa president, reportedly claimed that the enlarged tournament format has resulted in "uninteresting" matches. The comments have drawn criticism from participating nations ahead of the expanded competition.

The 2026 World Cup will feature 48 teams competing across multiple host nations, an increase from the traditional 32-team format. This expansion represents a significant change to the structure of football's flagship international tournament. The new format aims to broaden participation and geographical representation in the competition.

Teams have publicly disagreed with Ceferin's characterisation of the expanded tournament. The criticism highlights tensions between Uefa leadership and World Cup stakeholders regarding the tournament's direction. The 2026 finals will proceed with the enlarged format across its scheduled host nations.