World Cup: Luis Figo proposes to change the tournament format by expanding to 40 or 48 participants

"The World Cup is the most popular sporting event in the world. [...] I propose to have an open debate [abouts its future] at the FIFA (Fédération Internationale de Football Association) Congress," this is one of the proposals in "A Manifesto for Change at FIFA," unveiled by Luis Figo during a press conference at the Wembley Stadium, London (ENG) on 19/02/2015.

A candidate in the FIFA presidential elections (held on 29/05/2015 in Zurich, Switzerland, at the body's headquarters), the former Portuguese international player offers three proposals regarding the format of the World Cup: keep to the current formula with 32 participants, increase the number of participants to 40 or expand to 48 participants with two tournaments simultaneously on two different continents, followed by a final phase held in a single country.

"Allowing FIFA to make significant additional income" (Luis Figo)

• "The World Cup is the most popular sporting event in the world.
• Interest from fans is increasing exponentially at each new edition.
• It is a true treasure for FIFA and its Member Associations.
• I…