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How has the FIFA World Cup evolved since 1930?

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The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica
Encyclopaedia Britannica's editors oversee subject areas in which they have extensive knowledge, whether from years of experience gained by working on that content or via study for an advanced degree....
The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica

The FIFA World Cup has grown from an invitational 13-team tournament in 1930 to a competition featuring 48 participants in the 2026 edition, with a qualification cycle from September 2023 to March 2026. The tournament’s popularity has also increased exponentially since the first edition. The 2026 World Cup is also the first one to be cohosted by three countries.