Japan is reportedly seeking to co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup with China and South Korea, after an announced increase of the number of competing teams to 48 beginning 2026 from the current 32, according to Japanese news outlet Zakzak.

China National Radio reported that Japan originally planned to bid for the hosting rights of the 2030 World Cup independently. But along with FIFA's expansion policy, hosts will have to provide 18 stadiums rather than the previously required 12, with the stadium for the opening and final matches being able to accommodate 80,000 spectators.

Local Japanese media said the country's stadium accommodation capacity, number of training grounds and related facilities are far from being able to meet FIFA's new demands.

However, Luo Ming, Chief Editor of the international edition of Titan Sports, said it is very unlikely that the three countries will co-host the World Cup in 2030.

Since the 2022 World Cup will be held in Qatar, Luo explained, the 2026 and 2030 World Cups will not be given to Asian countries again, according to current FIFA rules. While the number of competing teams will grow to 48, the number of matches will remain the same; therefore, both China and Japan are capable of hosting the event independently, said Luo.

Insiders from the Chinese Football Association said they are not aware of such reports.