The 1982 FIFA World Cup in Spain marked a significant turning point in the tournament's history by expanding the number of participating teams from 16 to 24, reflecting the growing popularity and representation of football worldwide. By this time, FIFA had seen its membership swell to 153 associations, allowing for a more diverse group of nations to compete; this included teams from Africa, Asia, and Oceania, signifying football's increasing global reach and significance.

Spain hosted this prominent event across 14 cities with 17 stadiums, achieving a remarkable feat of organization for 52 matches. This expansive setup was unparalleled at the time and set a new standard for future tournaments that would continue to grow in scale and complexity. The upcoming 2026 World Cup is set to further increase capacity by introducing 48 teams across three host countries, a reflection of the ongoing evolution within international football competitions.

Additionally, the article notes significant occurrences from the tournament, including Argentina, the defending champions, opening the event against Belgium on June 13. The preparations were extensive, with Spain being awarded the hosting rights 16 years earlier, demonstrating the importance and anticipation surrounding this global sporting spectacle. The expansion in participating teams not only allowed for a richer variety of plays but also underscored football's role as a unifying force across different cultures and regions, making events like the World Cup a vital part of the global sporting calendar.