FIFA's Growth to 84 Members

FIFA, the international governing body for football, experienced significant growth in its membership following World War II. The organization was established to promote and regulate the sport globally, and its expansion was a reflection of the increasing popularity of football around the world. By the time of its fiftieth anniversary, FIFA had successfully increased its membership to 84 national associations. This growth was not only a testament to the sport's global appeal but also indicated FIFA's efforts to include more countries in the governance of football, allowing for a more diverse representation in international competitions. The expansion of FIFA's membership played a crucial role in the development of football in various regions, particularly in Africa, Asia, and the Americas, where the sport was gaining traction and local leagues were being established. The inclusion of more member associations facilitated the organization of international tournaments and competitions, which further popularized the sport and encouraged participation at all levels.