President of FIFA considers expanding the World Cup

Gianni Infantino, the president of FIFA, stated that he is leaning towards the idea of expanding the World Cup to 48 teams, instead of his original idea of 40.

"I like the number 48 because it adds more flavor to the event, but I am still indecisive," said Infantino in a conversation with journalists on the outskirts of Paris.

Currently, the tournament consists of 32 teams.

He added that the tests with instant replay for referees to review plays have convinced him of the benefits of that technology, and he expressed hopes that it will be available for the 2018 World Cup in Russia.

He said it is "paradoxical" that viewers and spectators with their cell phones can see videos of the plays, but not the referees.

Infantino said that the initial tests have been "positive" and that he "really hopes that in 2018 we can help the World Cup referees avoid serious mistakes."