United States, June 14, 2025 – The highly anticipated FIFA Club World Cup 2025 officially commences today in the United States, marking the debut of its significantly expanded format. This edition will feature 32 of the world’s top club teams, a major departure from the previous seven-team annual competition. The tournament runs from June 14 to July 13, serving as a significant “dress rehearsal” for the larger FIFA World Cup in 2026.
New Format and Teams: The revamped Club World Cup will see 32 clubs divided into eight groups of four, playing a round-robin group stage. The top two teams from each group will advance to a knockout stage, comprising the Round of 16, Quarterfinals, Semifinals, and the Final. This expanded format aims to boost fan engagement and provide a truly global club competition.
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Teams have qualified based on their performances in continental club competitions from 2021 to 2024. Notable clubs participating include European giants like Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, Manchester City, Chelsea, and Paris Saint-Germain, alongside South American powerhouses such as Palmeiras, Fluminense, River Plate, and Boca Juniors. Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami CF also secured a spot as the host nation’s representative due to their exceptional 2024 MLS season.
Host Cities and Venues: The tournament will be spread across 11 cities and 12 stadiums in the United States. Key venues include:
- Hard Rock Stadium (Miami Gardens, FL) – Hosting the opening match.
- MetLife Stadium (East Rutherford, New Jersey) – Set to host the final.
- Mercedes-Benz Stadium (Atlanta, GA)
- Rose Bowl Stadium (Pasadena, CA)
- Lumen Field (Seattle, WA)
- Lincoln Financial Field (Philadelphia, PA)
- TQL Stadium (Cincinnati, OH)
- Bank of America Stadium (Charlotte, NC)
- GEODIS Park (Nashville, TN)
- Camping World Stadium (Orlando, FL)
- Inter&Co Stadium (Orlando, FL)
- Audi Field (Washington, D.C.)
Opening Match and Schedule Highlights: The tournament kicks off today, June 14, with Al Ahly of Egypt facing Inter Miami CF at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami. The group stage runs until June 26, followed by the knockout rounds from June 28 to July 1 for the Round of 16, July 4-5 for the Quarterfinals, and July 8-9 for the Semifinals. The grand final will take place on July 13 at MetLife Stadium.
Prize Money and Significance: The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup boasts a staggering total prize pool of $1 billion, with the eventual winners potentially taking home $135 million. This substantial financial incentive is expected to greatly influence club strategies regarding player transfers and squad management. FIFA hopes this new quadrennial format will bring similar enthusiasm to club football as the traditional World Cup does for national teams.
Behind the Scenes: Immigration Concerns and Logistics: Despite the excitement, organizers are acknowledging potential external factors that could impact the tournament, including ongoing discussions around immigration policies in the United States. Host city executives have stated they are preparing to operate within uncertainty and ensure all visitors feel welcome, while FIFA continues conversations with the U.S. administration regarding visas and travel.
This inaugural expanded FIFA Club World Cup is not only a major event in its own right but also a crucial test run for the logistical capabilities of the United States ahead of co-hosting the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
