UEFA has proposed a sweeping reform to qualifying for the 2030 World Cup and Euro 2032, aiming to eliminate lopsided mismatches like France's 14-0 thrashing of Gibraltar. The new format would create a top tier of 36 teams playing in three 12-team groups, each facing six different opponents in a schedule reminiscent of the Champions League.
Teams would be drawn from three seeding pots, playing two opponents from each pot. This structure avoids extra games by fitting into the existing FIFA window from September to November. The top 36 teams would not face lower-ranked sides (UEFA rank 37-55), who would compete in a separate tier with playoff paths to major tournaments.
UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin said the reform aims to revive interest from fans and broadcasters, as traditional qualifiers have become predictable. A decision is expected in September after further fine-tuning. The 2030 World Cup, co-hosted by Spain, Portugal, and Morocco, is expected to offer Europe 16 qualifying slots. FIFA is also considering a 64-team expansion, requested by CONMEBOL.