CORNERFLICK
UEFA and Concacaf are exploring a joint Nations League-style competition for 96 men’s national teams, with a possible launch in 2028 after the next European Championship. The plan is still at an early stage and no final structure has been set.
How the format could work
The idea takes cues from the current UEFA Nations League and Concacaf system. Teams would be split into several tiers, play a group stage, then move into knockout rounds before a final tournament in a Final Four style.
That would create regular competitive meetings between sides such as Spain, France, England and Germany and Concacaf teams including the United States, Mexico and Canada.
Calendars, money and FIFA
The proposal is designed to avoid adding new international breaks. Matches would be played in existing windows, with group games likely in September, October and November, knockouts in March and the final tournament in June.
The plan also aims to reduce travel by keeping fixtures as regional as possible. Revenue would be shared across all 96 federations, which could be especially significant for smaller nations.
UEFA and Concacaf signed a cooperation memorandum in April, and their talks have intensified in recent weeks. It remains unclear whether FIFA approval would be needed.
Asia could be next
The Asian Football Confederation has also shown interest in joining at a later stage, although that is viewed as a longer-term ambition rather than an immediate step. Asia does not currently have its own Nations League, which could complicate any quick expansion.
If the project moves beyond discussion and into implementation, it would mark a major shift in international football and could make high-profile Europe-Concacaf fixtures a regular part of the calendar.