Overview

• FIFA is reportedly studying expansion of the Club World Cup from 32 to 48 teams and a move to a biennial schedule after the 2029 edition.
• The international match calendar is fixed through 2030, ruling out a 2027 edition and making 2029 the earliest opportunity for changes.
• Real Madrid, Barcelona, Manchester United, Liverpool and Napoli back the proposals to secure bigger prize distributions after missing the 2025 payouts.
• Premier League chief Richard Masters has criticized lack of consultation on match scheduling, warning of increased fixture congestion and player welfare risks.
• World Leagues, with support from FIFPRO, has lodged a complaint with the European Commission accusing FIFA of abusing its market dominance over the Club World Cup.