FIFA Prepares for Expanded 2025 Club World Cup with Group Stage Draw

The revamped tournament, featuring 32 teams, has drawn criticism over its impact on player workloads and scheduling challenges.

The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup will feature 32 teams and take place in the United States from June 15 to July 13, with matches hosted in 12 cities including Miami and New York.
The group stage draw is scheduled for Thursday, December 5, 2024, in Miami, with teams divided into four pots to ensure geographical diversity and competitive balance.
The tournament has faced backlash from players, unions, and European leagues, citing concerns over player burnout and an already congested football calendar.
Lionel Messi's Inter Miami has controversially secured a host nation slot despite not winning the MLS Cup, ensuring Messi's participation in the opening match in Miami.
FIFA has yet to secure media rights deals for the tournament, raising questions about its commercial viability despite the organization’s ambitious $4 billion revenue target.