This World Cup, Bigger Might Not Really Be Better
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is facing criticism for its massive scale, which spans three countries and 16 cities, leading to logistical challenges and high costs for fans. Experts suggest that the tournament's expansion may make it impossible for smaller nations to host the event alone in the future.
Why it matters
The shift toward larger, multi-nation tournaments raises questions about accessibility, affordability, and the sustainability of the global sports event model.
Illustration: Nadia Mèndez; Getty Images Comment Loader Save Story Save this story Comment Loader Save Story Save this story It’s often said that bigger means better. This year’s FIFA World Cup may put that to the test.
The article presents a balanced critique of the logistical and economic implications of the tournament's expansion.
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