FIFA prepares for Club World Cup debut in the United States

In the summer of 2025, the United States will host the FIFA Club World Cup, an expanded tournament featuring 32 professional teams from around the globe. The event aims to promote interest in soccer in the U.S. as a buildup to the 2026 World Cup, which will include 48 national teams and take place in various NFL stadiums across North America. Scheduled to run from June 15 to July 13, the finals are to be held at New Jersey's MetLife Stadium, which is also slated for the final of the 2026 World Cup. FIFA has pledged to invest $1 million in each of the 11 cities hosting matches to enhance local infrastructure and support the event. Meanwhile, ticket sales have been under scrutiny, with many seats still available as of early April 2025, reflecting the challenge of engaging American fans during the event's promotional period. FIFA president Gianni Infantino expressed confidence about ticket sales, drawing parallels to the popularity of friendly matches in America and declaring that the competitions would attract soccer fans from around the world. Infantino also discussed the current political climate in the U.S., reassuring potential international visitors that their safety would be a top priority, having coordinated a security plan with U.S. officials. He remained optimistic about the global perception of America, stating that the world continues to love the U.S. and emphasized the importance of a collaborative effort to ensure everyone feels welcome. The Club World Cup will not only offer an exciting showcase of high-level soccer but also aims to serve as a celebration and promotion of the sport in America, hoping to ultimately create a vibrant environment leading up to the 2026 World Cup.