FIFA Club World Cup Aims to Conquer America Ahead of 2026 World Cup

FIFA's President, Gianni Infantino, envisions a future where the 2025 Club World Cup is a landmark event, worthy of a centennial celebration. While some might dismiss this as wishful thinking, early signs from the tournament suggest it could be a pivotal moment for soccer's growth in the United States.

The opening days of the expanded Club World Cup were a spectacle of global fandom. Miami's beaches were awash in Argentine colors as Boca Juniors supporters arrived en masse. New York City's Times Square echoed with the cheers of Brazilian fans backing Palmeiras and Tunisian fans supporting Esperance. A packed Rose Bowl saw Paris Saint-Germain dominate Atletico Madrid, and Lionel Messi's Inter Miami drew a massive crowd, many supporting their Egyptian opponents, Al Ahly.

"The FIFA Club World Cup is taking over the world, and soccer is dominating America," Infantino proclaimed, highlighting the tournament's potential. The event, a year ahead of the World Cup 2026 in North America, features 32 of the world's top teams vying for a significant prize.

While soccer has traditionally played second fiddle to American football, basketball, baseball, and hockey in the US sports landscape, its global appeal is undeniable. The Club World Cup is attracting fans from all corners of the world, creating a vibrant and diverse atmosphere.

Lionel Messi emphasized the tournament's importance, noting, "It's a great opportunity to watch the best players play out here in the United States, and it's an amazing opportunity to do this."

FIFA has made the games easily accessible, offering free live streaming on DAZN, eliminating the need for initial payment information. The introduction of referee cameras, providing unique on-field perspectives, has also been a hit with fans. However, some innovations, like basketball-style player introductions, have been met with less enthusiasm.

The tournament has faced criticism, particularly concerning its financial aspects and potential strain on players. The lucrative broadcast deals and marketing rights have raised questions about commercialization. The demanding schedule, with teams playing multiple matches in a short period, has sparked concerns about player fatigue, especially for MLS teams in the midst of their season.

Despite these challenges, the Club World Cup is showcasing the growing competitiveness of MLS. Seattle Sounders' narrow defeat to Brazilian champions Botafogo demonstrated the league's potential on the world stage.

LAFC coach Steve Cherundolo believes that the Club World Cup and the upcoming World Cup will inspire a new generation of soccer fans in the US, mirroring his own experience as a young fan at the 1994 World Cup. "It should have a very profound effect and positive effect on our sport – or the world sport – in our country."

The 2025 Club World Cup is more than just a tournament; it's a potential catalyst for soccer's continued growth and acceptance in the United States, paving the way for a future where the beautiful game truly thrives.