FIFA mothballs plans for extra teams in Qatar

MOSCOW - The prospect of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar growing to 48 teams faded on Sunday after a discussion of the thorny issue was pulled from the agenda of FIFA's annual congress.

Plans for a feasibility study were put on hold after Qatar World Cup head Hassan Al-Thawadi addressed the ruling council of world soccer's governing body and FIFA president Gianni Infantino said agreement from the Gulf nation is a "precondition".

Having previously said he was keen on an adding 16 teams, Infantino is now casting doubt on the possibility of further disrupting preparations for the Qatar tournament.