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Collovati criticizes Infantino and 48-team World Cup format

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 15, 2026, 7:55 PM

Last updated Jun 15, 2026

Collovati criticizes Infantino and 48-team World Cup format

Summary

Fulvio Collovati has publicly criticized FIFA president Gianni Infantino regarding the expanded 48-team format of the World Cup. Collovati, a winner of the 1982 World Cup, stated that Infantino prioritizes business over sporting merit, disrespecting Italian football. He reacted negatively to Infantino's suggestion that Italy might qualify if the tournament expands to 64 teams, referring to the current format as a joke due to the quality of some participating nations. Collovati's remarks come in light of recent Group A matches at the 2026 World Cup in Mexico City, where he is providing commentary. He expects poor competition in upcoming matches, citing his comments on matches involving lesser-known teams.

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By the Numbers

•Fulvio Collovati criticizes Gianni Infantino's handling of the World Cup format.
•Collovati calls the 48-team World Cup a 'joke' due to team quality.
•Infantino suggested Italy might qualify in a 64-team format.
•Collovati comments on the group matches, including Mexico vs South Africa.
•He anticipates low competition levels in future games.

Latest Updates

7:55 PMYahoo Sports — 1982 Italy winner Collovati slams Infantino: ‘He should be ashamed, the World Cup is a joke’

What they're saying

"
Fulvio Collovati has launched a fierce attack on FIFA president Gianni Infantino over the expanded 48-team World Cup format, with the 1982 World Cup winner accusing the governing body’s chief of pri...
— Yahoo Sports

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