U.S. to Host First-Ever 32-Team FIFA Club World Cup in 2025
For the first time in its history, the United States will host the FIFA Club World Cup, an expanded 32-team tournament scheduled from June 15 to July 13, 2025, across 11 cities nationwide. This landmark event underscores the growing prominence of soccer in the U.S. and serves as a precursor to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which the nation will co-host with Canada and Mexico.
The tournament will feature top clubs from around the globe, including European powerhouses such as Real Madrid, Manchester City, Chelsea, Bayern Munich, Paris Saint-Germain, Inter Milan, and Juventus. Representing the host nation are Inter Miami CF and Seattle Sounders FC, marking a significant milestone for Major League Soccer on the international stage.
Matches will be held in the following cities and stadiums:
- Atlanta, Georgia: Mercedes-Benz Stadium
- Charlotte, North Carolina: Bank of America Stadium
- Cincinnati, Ohio: TQL Stadium
- Los Angeles, California: Rose Bowl
- Miami Gardens, Florida: Hard Rock Stadium
- Nashville, Tennessee: Geodis Park
- New York/New Jersey: MetLife Stadium (Final)
- Orlando, Florida: Camping World Stadium and Inter&Co Stadium
- Philadelphia, Pennsylvania: Lincoln Financial Field
- Seattle, Washington: Lumen Field
- Washington D.C.: Audi Field
The final match is scheduled for July 13 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, a venue that will also host the final of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The tournament's format mirrors that of the traditional FIFA World Cup, comprising eight groups of four teams each. The top two teams from each group will advance to the knockout stages, culminating in the final. This structure aims to enhance global engagement and competitiveness among clubs from different continents.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has emphasized the significance of this event in promoting soccer in the U.S. Each host city will receive $1 million to support local initiatives, such as the installation of mini-pitches and organizing soccer activities for children in underserved areas. This initiative aims to leave a lasting social legacy and improve soccer infrastructure in North America.
The tournament has garnered significant global interest, with fans from over 130 countries purchasing tickets. The United States leads in ticket demand, followed by Brazil, Argentina, Mexico, and Canada. High-demand matches include Real Madrid vs. Al Hilal in Miami and Bayern Munich vs. Boca Juniors. FIFA has introduced ticket packages that offer access to multiple matches and the opportunity to purchase tickets for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
This edition marks a significant expansion from previous tournaments, increasing from seven to 32 teams. The decision to host the tournament in the U.S. serves as a precursor to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will also be hosted in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. This underscores the growing prominence of soccer in North America.
The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup represents a pivotal moment for soccer in the United States, offering fans the opportunity to witness world-class club competition on home soil and setting the stage for future growth and international engagement in the sport.
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