The FIFA executive committee could expand the World Cup to 40 teams starting at the 2026 tournament, which would almost certainly mean a qualification spot for the top team in Oceania according to reports.
According to a document seen by The Associated Press, the plan to add eight teams and 32 matches is part of the reform proposals being considered Thursday. If accepted, it can become FIFA policy without the approval of the 209 member federations.
The 2026 bidding should start next year with the United States, Canada and Mexico the expected candidates. The U.S. would likely be the favourite for a tournament needing a minimum 12 stadiums for a 96-match World Cup.
The probable format would be eight five-team groups, with the top two advancing to the round of 16.
An automatic qualification spot would mean the All Whites would avoid a play-off to reach the World Cup.
New Zealand had to face Mexico in an intercontinental play-off for a spot in the 2014 World Cup, losing the playoff 9-3 on aggregate.
To reach the 2018 World Cup in Russia, the All Whites will need to top the Oceania group play and advance past the fifth beat team in CONMEBOL (South America) in a playoff.
