FIFA is reportedly considering hosting the Club World Cup every two years starting in 2029. Discussions also include a potential expansion of the tournament from 32 to 48 teams, aligning with FIFA’s tournament models for the Men’s and Women’s World Cups. These changes may significantly alter the global football calendar and have already sparked debate among key stakeholders.
Real Madrid Leads the Push for Change
Real Madrid is believed to be a major advocate for these changes. During a meeting with FIFA in Miami this past June, the Spanish club proposed the biennial format, a suggestion that has resonated with other top clubs, including Barcelona, Manchester United, Liverpool, and Napoli. A primary motivation for such clubs is the massive revenue potential — Chelsea, for example, earned £85 million in prize money from the tournament this year.
Unease Among Stakeholders
While FIFA explores these developments, there is apprehension from organizations like the Premier League and UEFA. The Premier League has expressed concerns about the lack of consultation from FIFA regarding tournament scheduling, which impacts league fixtures and player workloads. Richard Masters, Chief Executive of the Premier League, emphasized the need for leagues to have a voice in FIFA’s decisions, calling for a “seat at the table” in these discussions.
Global Calendar Adjustments on the Horizon
FIFA’s current calendar is locked until 2030, leaving minimal room for immediate changes. However, a revamped schedule is expected post-2030, with FIFA hinting at adjustments like removing the June international break to accommodate tournaments like the Club World Cup. Such proposals have faced resistance from UEFA, which utilizes summer dates for its Nations League finals.
Future Hosting and Expanded Opportunities
The US hosted the inaugural expanded 32-team Club World Cup this year, but future hosting rights will undergo a formal bidding process. Nations such as Qatar, Spain, and Morocco have already expressed interest in hosting the 2029 tournament. Additionally, FIFA is reviewing its qualification criteria, including lifting the cap of two clubs per country and gradually increasing the tournament size to 48 teams.
These potential changes underscore FIFA’s broader objective to enhance club-level competitions and their global reach. However, balancing the interests of leagues, players, and governing bodies remains a challenge that FIFA must address to ensure long-term success and cooperation across the football ecosystem.
