Berti Vogts criticizes expanded World Cup format for harming football

Former Germany coach Berti Vogts has criticized FIFA's decision to expand the World Cup to 48 teams, stating that it "does football harm". In a Thursday interview with Rheinische Post, Vogts expressed concern that the larger tournament will negatively impact the quality of play and the experience for players. He argued that the focus has shifted to financial incentives rather than maintaining the integrity of the competition. Vogts called for action from the German FA and other top football nations to advocate for a reduction back to a 24-team format. He suggested alternatives for qualification that could maintain competitiveness without diluting the tournament's quality.

• 7:55 AMYahoo Sports — Ex-Germany coach Vogts: Expanded World Cup 'does football harm'