FIFA Plans Major Expansion of Club World Cup Ahead of 2029 Edition
FIFA's ambition to enhance the Club World Cup stems from the perceived success of the tournament held last summer in the United States. The governing body aims to increase the number of participating teams from 32 to 48, mirroring the expansion seen in the World Cup. This significant change is expected to take effect for the next edition set for 2029, prior to the subsequent World Cup. While the exact location for the 2029 tournament remains undecided, Spain, Portugal, and Morocco are under consideration, with suggestions that hosting the event in these countries could serve as a trial for the main World Cup the following year. There is also speculation that FIFA desires to make the tournament occur every two years, enhancing its regularity on the global football calendar. However, this expansion plan faces resistance from UEFA, which contributed 12 teams to the tournament—the highest from any continent. Concerns from UEFA center around the potential for increased fixture congestion, especially following the recent addition of four games to the Champions League season. Notably, Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti had previously criticized the congested schedule, although he later retracted his comments. Adding to FIFA's challenges, clubs express frustration over delays in the distribution of €212 million in promised solidarity payments. Reportedly, approximately €57.3k was due for distribution to top-flight clubs worldwide, with no updates on when these funds will be released.
Source: Football España - 2026-02-20