FIFA World Cup 2018: Governing body to overhaul world ranking system

FIFA will attempt to combat “manipulation” of its world ranking system by introducing an overhauled points formula following the World Cup.

The change was approved at a FIFA Council Meeting on Sunday in a bid for the standings to better reflect the true strength of each national team.

The present method, which has been in place since 2006, has received criticism for enabling countries to boost their position by scheduling low-risk friendlies against weaker opposition, therefore receiving favourable seedings at major tournaments.

In its place comes a new formula based on the Elo method of calculation, which places greater emphasis on the strength of opponents and results achieved in meaningful competitions, particularly those in knockout stages.

The fresh approach will be reflected in FIFA’s first rankings update following the conclusion of the World Cup in Russia, which kicks off on June 14.