The result was clear: At the Fifa Congress at the end of May, 166 out of 209 countries are voting for a feasibility study for a World Cup every two years. The head behind it is Fifa chief developer Arsène Wenger, who was also recently discussed as a national team coach.
His explanation in «kicker»: «If you want to improve the quality of games around the world, then you should think about it. Because in addition to the 55 countries in the Uefa there are 156 more. ” And further: “In the meantime 211 countries belong to Fifa – and 133 of them have never played a World Cup. These countries watch every four years without any chance of taking part themselves. “
Africa mad at Uefa
These words are particularly popular in Africa. For example, Fouzi Lekjaa, the President of the Moroccan Association, welcomed the idea: “A World Cup every two years will give African teams more opportunities to improve by competing with the best more often.”
He also openly expresses his anger at Uefa: “People should sit down and talk about the best solutions for everyone, not just for those who enjoy all privileges, have all the resources and people in Africa and from other continents as second class regard.”
He continued: «It’s easy to make headlines and campaigns against racism and discrimination, but what Africa wants is concrete action and goodwill. No arrogant, dictatorial and discriminatory positions and people who refuse to discuss ideas. Those who oppose a World Cup every two years are selfish because they discriminate against millions of people just to protect their own commercial interests. You should support the opportunity to give hope to hundreds of millions of people on our continent. “
All international matches in October?
Wenger intends to also change the periods of notice for international matches. The teams should meet one month in October and play all qualifying games. “Overall, that means less travel for the players, more clarity and continuity for everyone involved and less risk of injury,” says Wenger. «Think of it this way: the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Mexico and Canada; 2027 a European Championship and the other continental tournaments; Another world championship in 2028; and so forth.”
Sequel follows. It can hardly be assumed that Uefa will be immediately available for this proposal.