South American Hosts to Play 2030 World Cup Qualifiers Despite Automatic Berths

Argentina, Uruguay, and Paraguay to Participate in 2030 World Cup Qualifiers

Argentina, Uruguay, and Paraguay will compete in the qualifiers for the 2030 World Cup even though they have secured automatic spots as three of the six host countries, according to Robert Harrison, head of the Paraguayan Football Association.

The trio will each host a match during the tournament, honoring the 100th anniversary of the men's World Cup, which began in Montevideo, Uruguay in 1930. The rest of the competition is scheduled across Spain, Portugal, and Morocco.

Participation in CONMEBOL Qualifiers Serves a Strategic Purpose

Though FIFA plans to grant automatic qualification to all six hosts, Harrison revealed that the South American nations intend to take part in the CONMEBOL qualification process. This move is not just to maintain match fitness.

Harrison described an upcoming competition resembling the UEFA Nations League where South American teams will face European sides based on their qualification rankings.

"We’re all going to play qualifiers. We’re already qualified, but we’re all going to play qualifiers for positions for a future tournament that will be played against Europeans," Harrison told Paraguayan radio station Rock&Pop.

He explained that finishing fourth or fifth could pit a team against Spain, Germany, or other top European teams labeled Europe 1, Europe 2, or Europe 3. The financial rewards vary greatly depending on the European opponent faced.

Economic Incentives and International Collaboration

Harrison pointed out the economic stakes involved: facing higher-ranked European opponents brings greater profits. Historically, CONMEBOL and UEFA have cooperated, such as in the Finalissima, a contest between the Copa América winner and the European champion. Rumors have circulated about CONMEBOL teams possibly joining a UEFA Nations League-style competition.

Regarding the 2030 qualifiers, Harrison stated, "These qualifiers for this World Cup will qualify three and a half spots. There will be three and a half places. Us three are already qualified. We’re seeing a possible project with the Europeans where this championship will be against them and will be played according to the location in the table, how the qualifiers in 2030 turn out."

Potential Expansion Could Increase Hosting Opportunities

Currently, the South American hosts are slated to organize just one match each. However, CONMEBOL president Alejandro Dominguez, also Paraguayan, has advocated for expanding the World Cup from 48 to 64 teams. Should that happen, Harrison mentioned Paraguay might host an entire group stage instead of a single game.