Riolo criticizes the 2026 World Cup format

French journalist Daniel Riolo expressed his opinion on the format of the 2026 World Cup, stressing that the closer we get to the tournament, the more he believes that the 48-team system is unjustified. He stated that the current groups appear weak and do not reflect the true level of competition. For example, the group includes New Zealand, Iran, Egypt and Belgium, which is unacceptable in a World Cup, where the competition should be more fierce.

Riolo explained: “We have teams like Switzerland, Qatar, Bosnia and Canada, and that makes it seem like we are in the qualifying stage and not in the World Cup. When Spain stumbles against Cabo Verde, this idea seems to be confirmed, but when Spain crushes the Saudi team, this argument becomes untenable. I see no reason to worry about small teams, especially since we know that they can achieve anything. These matches are not necessary. The World Cup is not like the French Cup, it is about excellence. If you go to a restaurant and they decide to serve you 40 dishes, you don't have to eat it all. If you don't like snails, will you eat them? I won't."

The 2026 World Cup will be held in the United States, Canada and Mexico from June 11 to July 19, and this will be the first edition to feature 48 teams.

---

Related Articles

1. More More](https://changsuek.com/th/news/--151)
2. 제레미 도쿠, 아버지가 되다 - 비판에 대한 사과