Football fans around the world are gearing up for the biggest shake-up in the sport in decades. FIFA has announced a major revamp of the Club World Cup, turning it into a month-long extravaganza that is set to rival the World Cup itself. With a staggering $1 billion in prize money up for grabs and 32 of the top clubs from across the globe heading to the United States this summer, this tournament is not just another competition – it’s a bold move by FIFA to create a new global football festival.
The new Club World Cup will feature 32 teams, making it four times bigger than the previous edition. This complete overhaul will see the tournament transform from a week-long event into a month-long celebration of football. The competition is set to kick off in the United States this summer and will be held every four years, mirroring the schedule of the World Cup. FIFA’s aim is to elevate club football to new heights and give the competition the global prestige it has always aimed for.
The new format is designed to give the tournament a more international feel, with more teams, more meaningful matches, and increased opportunities for clubs from Africa, Asia, and the Americas to shine on the world stage. The 32 teams will be split into eight groups, representing all six football confederations – AFC, CAF, CONCACAF, CONMEBOL, OFC, and UEFA. The top two teams from each group will advance to the knockout rounds, with matches played across 12 venues in 11 American cities.
The draw has thrown up some exciting matchups, with Group G featuring heavyweights Manchester City and Juventus, while Group H sees Real Madrid pitted against Saudi Arabian powerhouse Al-Hilal. Beyond the glory of winning the tournament, there is also a significant financial incentive, with FIFA committing $1 billion in prize money. This presents an opportunity for smaller clubs from emerging football markets to showcase their talent on a global stage and set themselves up financially for the future.
The tournament is set to kick off on June 14, 2025, and will run for just under a month, culminating in the final in New Jersey on July 13, 2025. Football fans can expect a month of thrilling matches, fierce competition, and plenty of surprises as the world’s best clubs battle it out for the coveted Club World Cup trophy.
