The 21st edition of the FIFA Club World Cup, an international club soccer competition run by FIFA, is scheduled for 2025 and is also known as FIFA Club World Cup 25. The competition will take place in the United States between June 14 and July 13, 2025. With 32 teams, including the winners of the four previous continental championships, it is anticipated to be the first under an enlarged format.
With their first victory in the final tournament under the previous structure in 2023, Manchester City is the reigning champion. In March 2019, the enlarged tournament format was revealed. FIFA announced the United States as the host nation four months after approving the distribution of places among confederations in February 2023. A very similar version of the previous model was used to establish the FIFA Intercontinental Cup as an annual competition.
The 32 participating clubs share a $1 billion prize pool under the distribution scheme. Up to US$125 million will be given to the tournament winner, which is a substantial increase in cash prizes above prior iterations. A solidarity investment program aims to offer club football worldwide with an additional $250 million in addition to the prize money for the participating teams.
The distribution for the 2025 tournament is:
Sporting performance pillar ($475 million):
Group stage (three matches): + $2.0 million per win; + $1.0 million draw
Round of 16: + $7.5 million
Quarter-final: + $13.125 million
Semi-final: + $21.0 million
Finalist: + $30.0 million
Winner: + $40.0 million
Participation pillar ($525 million):
Europe: $12.81–38.19 million (determined by a ranking based on sporting and commercial criteria)
South America: $15.21 million
North, Central America & Caribbean: $9.55 million
Asia: $9.55 million
Africa: $9.55 million
Oceania: $3.58 million
Solidarity payments ($250 million): These funds are used to support clubs around the world, promoting growth and diversity in international football, in addition to the winnings for the competing teams.
FAQs
What is the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup?
The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup is the 21st edition of FIFA’s premier international club football tournament. Scheduled to take place in the United States from June 14 to July 13, 2025, this edition marks a significant expansion from previous tournaments, featuring 32 teams from six confederations.
Where will the tournament be held?
The tournament will be hosted across 12 venues in 11 cities throughout the United States. Specific cities and stadiums will be announced by FIFA closer to the tournament date.
Which teams have qualified for the tournament?
A total of 32 clubs from around the world have qualified for the tournament. Notable teams include:
– Europe (UEFA): Manchester City, Chelsea, Real Madrid, Atlético Madrid, Bayern Munich, Borussia Dortmund, Inter Milan, Juventus, Benfica, Porto
– South America (CONMEBOL): Flamengo, Fluminense, Palmeiras, Botafogo, Boca Juniors, River Plate
– North America (CONCACAF): Inter Miami CF, Los Angeles FC, Seattle Sounders FC, Monterrey, Pachuca
– Africa (CAF): Al Ahly, Wydad AC, Espérance de Tunis, Mamelodi Sundowns
– Asia (AFC): Urawa Red Diamonds, Al Hilal, Ulsan HD, Al Ain
– Oceania (OFC): Auckland City
What is the tournament schedule?
The tournament is set to run from June 14 to July 13, 2025. The full match schedule, including venues and kick-off times, was finalized and published on December 7, 2024, following the draw.
What is the prize money for the tournament?
The total prize money for the tournament is a record $1 billion. The distribution includes:
– Sporting Performance: $475 million allocated based on team performance, with the winner receiving up to $40 million.
– Participation: $525 million guaranteed payments to all 32 clubs, varying by confederation.
– Solidarity Payments: $250 million aimed at supporting club football development worldwide.
What are the squad regulations?
Each club is required to submit a provisional squad of 26 to 50 players. The final squad must consist of 26 to 35 players, including at least three goalkeepers, submitted by June 10, 2025. An extraordinary transfer window from June 1 to 10, 2025, allows clubs to register new players. Limited changes to the final list are permitted between June 27 and July 3, provided the club’s member association has an open transfer window.
How is the tournament structured?
The 32 teams are divided into eight groups of four, playing in a round-robin format. The top two teams from each group advance to the Round of 16, followed by quarter-finals, semi-finals, and the final.
How can I watch the matches?
Broadcasting rights and streaming options will be announced by FIFA and local broadcasters closer to the tournament date. Fans should check official FIFA channels and local listings for updates.
Has there been any criticism of the tournament?
Yes, the expansion to 32 teams has faced criticism from players’ unions and football organizations due to concerns over fixture congestion and player welfare.
