Club World Cup 2025: Key Details on Teams, Format, Fixtures, and Draw

Overview of the New FIFA Club World Cup Format

The FIFA Club World Cup is set to undergo a significant transformation starting in 2025, introducing an exciting new format with 32 teams participating. This revamp marks a departure from the traditional annual competition, previously involving just seven clubs. Let's explore what to expect from this prestigious tournament.

Key Changes in Format and Schedule

In December 2022, FIFA announced major updates to the Club World Cup, including an expansion from seven to 32 teams and a scheduling shift to every four years. The first edition under the new format will be held in the summer of 2025, with the tournament kicking off on June 15 and culminating in the final on July 13.

Host Country and Venues

The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup will be hosted in the United States, utilizing a total of 12 stadiums, including:

• Mercedes-Benz Stadium (Atlanta)
• Bank of America Stadium (Charlotte)
• TQL Stadium (Cincinnati)
• Rose Bowl Stadium (Los Angeles)
• Hard Rock Stadium (Miami)
• GEODIS Park (Nashville)
• Camping World Stadium (Orlando)
• Inter&Co Stadium (Orlando)
• Lincoln Financial Field (Philadelphia)
• Lumen Field (Seattle)
• Audio Field (Washington, D.C.)

Qualification Process for Teams

With the expanded format, Europe will have 12 representatives based on performances in the UEFA Champions League over the last four seasons, from the 2020-21 season to the present. Notable qualifiers include:

• Manchester City
• Real Madrid
• Chelsea
• Bayern Munich
• Paris Saint-Germain
• Inter Milan
• Atletico Madrid
• Others from the UEFA Champions League

Meanwhile, teams from other confederations will qualify as follows:

• South America: 6 teams from Copa Libertadores
• Africa: 4 teams
• Asia: 4 teams
• North America: 4 teams
• Oceania: 1 team
• Host Nation: 1 additional team

Understanding the Tournament Structure

The tournament will mimic the structure of the FIFA World Cup. The 32 teams will be divided into eight groups of four, with the top two from each group advancing to the knockout stage. The progression will include:

• Round of 16
• Quarter-finals
• Semi-finals
• Final

Note that there will be no third-place playoff in this format.

Upcoming Draw and Conclusion

The draw for the first new edition of the FIFA Club World Cup will occur in December 2024, generating excitement among fans and clubs alike. With many top clubs from around the globe competing, this tournament promises to be a thrilling showcase of international club football.