A Brief History of the Soccer World Cup
The need for a International football event for the top football nations of the world was due largely to the Olympics' restrictions against professional athletes. In 1930, the Federation Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) held soccer's first World Cup tournament in Montevideo, Uruguay (see more on Uruguay 1930).
1938 World Cup match in FranceAfter another two events in 1934 (Italy) and 1938 (France), there was a 12 year break due to the World War, before recommencing in 1950 in Brazil. The World Cup has been held every four years since then.
Thirteen teams participated in the first World Cup in 1930. Up until 1978, the tournament was between 16 teams, then it was increased to 24 from 1982, then to the current level of 32 teams from 1998. In 2017, it was decided to expand the World Cup to 48 teams from 2026 onwards. The format will consist of 16 groups of three teams. (see formats)
Brazil is the only country to have competed in every World Cup finals series, and are also the most successful country with five victories. (see winners list).
Other World Cup History
- See details of each host city for further details of each World Cup event.
- Goal scorers list - the top goal scorers from each WC tournament.
- List of Winners — all the World Cup Final winners.
- World Cup Highlights — Memorable Moments in World Cup History.
- World Cup Records
- World Cup Golden Ball Winners
- List of Firsts — the first to do just about everything associated with the World Cup.
- All World Cup Mascots
- Finals format changes
- All World Cup Stadiums
- History of the FIFA World Cup Trophy plus Prizes
- Match Ball History
- List of FIFA World Cup Awards
Related Pages
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