As the United States gears up to host the expanded FIFA Club World Cup in June and July 2025, questions arise about whether the current climate within the U.S. is impacting the tournament. While the event is expected to generate significant economic benefits and promote the sport, several factors are casting a shadow on the preparations.
One of the primary concerns revolves around international travel. Reports of increased border crackdowns, visa processing delays, and detentions of foreign tourists have created an atmosphere of uncertainty. The U.S. Travel Association has urged the Trump administration to address these issues, emphasizing the need for efficient visa processing and customs procedures to ensure a smooth experience for the millions of visitors expected for the Club World Cup, the Ryder Cup, the 2026 World Cup, and the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has suggested solutions such as longer shifts for consular staff and the use of artificial intelligence to expedite visa processing. However, the perception of the U.S. as a potentially unwelcoming destination could deter some fans and participants, affecting attendance and the overall atmosphere of the tournament.
Security is another key consideration. Each U.S. city hosting matches has had to hire lobbyists to petition the federal government for security funding. FIFA, deviating from its usual practice of working with a national organizing committee, is directly overseeing the 16 local groups, which complicates coordination with the federal government. This decentralized structure raises concerns about the effectiveness of security measures and the potential for disruptions.
Beyond logistical and security challenges, there are concerns about whether the U.S. can successfully deliver standardized pitches, particularly within NFL venues. FIFA has given assurances of natural grass and regulation sizes.
Despite these challenges, the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 is expected to have a major global impact. FIFA will make a legacy contribution of $1 million to each of the 11 host cities to help build community-focused pitches and support local social projects. One dollar from every ticket sold will go to the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, aiming to raise $100 million to help children worldwide. An OpenEconomics study estimates that the tournament could generate $21.1 billion in global Gross Domestic Product, including $9.6 billion in the United States, and support approximately 105,000 U.S. jobs.
The tournament itself has been revamped, expanding from seven to 32 teams and offering a significantly increased prize pool of $1 billion. This has elevated the tournament's status, attracting some of the biggest names in world soccer, including Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappé, and Erling Haaland. The format will see 32 teams divided into eight groups of four, with the top two teams in each group advancing to the knockout stage.
The FIFA Club World Cup 2025 presents both opportunities and challenges for the United States. While the tournament has the potential to boost the economy, promote soccer, and leave a lasting legacy, it also faces hurdles related to international travel, security, and pitch readiness. Addressing these concerns will be crucial to ensuring a successful and memorable tournament.
