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3d ago

MLS and FIFA Praise Club World Cup as U.S. Soccer Market Solidifies

Officials celebrate more than three million fans alongside record revenue; organizers plan venue scheduling refinements before the 2026 World Cup.

Dec 6, 2024; Carson, California, USA; MLS commissioner Don Garber gives the State of the League Address at Dignity Health Sports Park. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images
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FIFA president Gianni Infantino speaks at Trump Tower in New York on Saturday

Overview

  • Don Garber and Gianni Infantino praised the 32-team tournament as a breakthrough that affirmed the United States as a genuine soccer nation.
  • The competition attracted more than three million fans across Miami, Atlanta, Philadelphia and New Jersey venues, averaging nearly 40,000 attendees per match.
  • FIFA reported nearly $2.1 billion in revenue over 63 matches, averaging $33 million each and making it the world’s most lucrative club competition.
  • Several venues slated for the 2026 FIFA World Cup underwent a critical test run, revealing issues with oversized NFL stadiums and extreme summer heat.
  • MLS and FIFA organizers are weighing changes to stadium selection and kick-off scheduling to boost attendance and safeguard player welfare in future editions.