The expanded FIFA Club World Cup is currently underway in the United States, running from June 14th to July 13th, 2025. This edition marks a significant departure from the previous format, expanding from a seven-team annual tournament to a 32-team competition held every four years. The tournament's revamp has generated considerable buzz, alongside the usual debates about fixture congestion and player welfare.
This year's edition features clubs from across the globe, including European giants like Manchester City and Chelsea, as well as Lionel Messi's Inter Miami. The format mirrors that of the FIFA World Cup, with 32 teams divided into eight groups of four. The top two teams from each group will advance to the knockout stage, commencing with the round of 16, followed by the quarter-finals, semi-finals, and the final. Notably, there will be no third-place playoff.
The expansion of the Club World Cup has not been without its critics. FIFPRO, the global players' union, has voiced concerns about the impact of adding another month to an already packed football calendar, raising issues related to player fatigue and potential health risks. The scheduling of the tournament during the hottest months in the United States further exacerbates these concerns, particularly given the increasing impact of global warming on playing conditions.
Despite the criticisms, the tournament promises significant financial rewards for participating clubs. FIFA is set to distribute a substantial sum of money among the 32 teams, with the winners potentially receiving up to £97 million ($125 million). The total prize money pool is estimated at £774 million ($1 billion), encompassing participation fees and performance-based rewards. FIFA has also pledged to allocate £200 million ($250 million) as solidarity payments to clubs worldwide.
The United States secured the hosting rights for the 2025 Club World Cup after the initial plan to host the expanded tournament in China in 2021 was shelved due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The tournament will be held in 11 cities across the USA, with matches taking place in 12 venues. Seattle is one of the host cities, and will host Seattle Sounders' group stage matches at Lumen Field, along with three additional matches.
Several former Liverpool players are set to participate in the Club World Cup, including Trent Alexander-Arnold, who recently joined Real Madrid. Luis Suarez will be playing for Inter Miami, while Ryan Kent will represent Seattle Sounders.
The inaugural match of the revamped Club World Cup saw Inter Miami face Al Ahly at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami. Other notable matches include Botafogo vs Seattle Sounders at Lumen Field in Seattle, and Chelsea vs LAFC in Atlanta.
The expanded FIFA Club World Cup aims to bring together the most iconic clubs in the global game, offering a platform to compete for the title of the world's best club team. However, the tournament's impact on player welfare and the potential for fixture congestion remain key concerns for stakeholders in the footballing community.
