The World Cup will be expanded to host 48 teams, up from 32, Fifa has decided.

An initial stage of 16 groups of three teams will precede a knockout stage for the remaining 32 when the change is made for the 2026 tournament.

The sport's world governing body voted unanimously in favour of the change at a meeting in Zurich on Tuesday.

The number of tournament matches will rise to 80, from 64, but the eventual winners will still play only seven games.

The tournament will be completed within 32 days - a measure to appease powerful European clubs, who objected to reform because of a crowded international schedule.

The changes mark the first World Cup expansion since 1998.

Why expand?

Fifa president Gianni Infantino has been behind the move, saying the World Cup has to be "more inclusive".

Speaking at a sports conference in Dubai in December, Infantino said expansion will also benefit "the development of football all over the world".

He added: "There is nothing bigger in terms of boosting football in a country than participating in a World Cup."

Despite saying "the decision should not just be financially driven", Infantino did highlight the possible financial upsides.

According to Fifa's own research, revenue is predicted to increase to £5.29bn for a 48-team tournament, giving a potential profit rise of £521m.

Source, BBCNEWS. http://www.bbc.com/sport/football/38565246
Do you think this new format will favour African teams?

Great, Nice Move But Am More Interested In When Nigeria Is Going To Clinch The World Cup Senior Team Trophy

And how slot will b allocated to Africa?

I think we're witnessing the slow decline and eventual death of international football

This is a blatant power play by Infantino in order to shore up his base.

You'll remember that shortly before the FBI ended his reign of corruption, Blatter was in favour of something similar.

The reports I've read talk of an extra £700 million for FIFA in TV revenue, but I'm sure that's not their reason for bringing in this change.

The quality of the football will decline, top teams will coast along, and quality football will suffer if mediocrity is allowed free reign.