FIFA Club World Cup 2025 to bring in $2.1 billion in revenue

The expanded 2025 edition of the FIFA Club World Cup, with 32 teams taking part for the first time, has been met with criticism ahead of its kick-off. Experts and players are concerned about the tight schedule that will overload top stars. Extreme weather conditions in the US, with prolonged high temperatures, have also raised concerns about the health and fitness of participating teams.

Not only that, the attractiveness of the tournament to fans has also been questioned. Many matches were played in a state of incomplete stadiums. However, Mr. Infantino affirmed that FIFA was completely satisfied with the number of spectators coming to the stadium and emphasized that the tournament had achieved great financial success.

“The golden age of club football has officially begun. We can absolutely say that this FIFA Club World Cup has been a resounding success,” the FIFA President said at Trump Tower on Fifth Avenue in New York City, where FIFA’s new offices are located.

“There was a perception that the tournament would not be financially viable, that no one really cared. But I can confirm that after 63 matches, we have earned nearly $2.1 billion in revenue,” he stressed. “That means each match brings in an average of about $33 million, no other club tournament in the world can come close to that figure. This is already the most successful tournament at club level.”

Controversy and reaction

Not everyone agrees, though. Former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp is one of the most vocal opponents. In a recent interview, he called an expanded Club World Cup “the worst idea ever in football.”

However, the FIFA president was quick to dismiss the notion that Klopp represents a common European voice.

“It cannot be said that Europe views this tournament negatively. That is not true,” said Infantino. “All the teams that have come here have expressed satisfaction. Even some teams that did not qualify have contacted us to ask how they can participate next time.”

“Of course, I would also like to see Liverpool, Arsenal, Manchester United, Barcelona, Tottenham, AC Milan or Napoli play here. But to participate, teams need to qualify, and the criteria are clearly defined," the FIFA President added.

The next FIFA Club World Cup is scheduled to take place in 2029. When asked about the possibility of holding it every two years or expanding the number of teams, Mr. Infantino did not make a specific commitment.

“We have created something completely new, something that will last and is changing the landscape of club football,” the FIFA President affirmed.

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