2025 FIFA Club World Cup in the United States
Revolutionary 32-Club Format
For the first time in history, the FIFA Club World Cup is being held in an expanded format with 32 clubs from all six confederations. The tournament takes place from June 14th to July 13th, 2025, in the United States. The clubs are divided into eight groups of four teams, with the top two from each group advancing to the round of 16, followed by the quarterfinals, semifinals, and final. Unlike previous editions, there will be no match for third place.
Participants by Confederation
- Europe (12 clubs): Manchester City, Chelsea, Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, Paris Saint-Germain, Borussia Dortmund, Inter, Porto, Atlético Madrid, Benfica, Juventus, Red Bull Salzburg.
- South America (6 clubs): Flamengo, Palmeiras, Fluminense, Botafogo, River Plate, Boca Juniors.
- Africa (4 clubs): Al Ahly, Wydad Casablanca, Espérance de Tunis, Mamelodi Sundowns.
- Asia (4 clubs): Al-Hilal, Urawa Red Diamonds, Al-Ain, Ulsan HD.
- North and Central America (4 clubs): Monterrey, Seattle Sounders, Pachuca, Club León.
- Oceania (1 club): Auckland City.
- Host (1 club): Inter Miami.
Host Cities and Stadiums
The tournament is held at 12 stadiums in 11 cities across the USA:
- Atlanta – Mercedes-Benz Stadium
- Charlotte – Bank of America Stadium
- Cincinnati – TQL Stadium
- Los Angeles (Pasadena) – Rose Bowl
- Miami – Hard Rock Stadium
- Nashville – GEODIS Park
- New York/New Jersey – MetLife Stadium
- Orlando – Camping World Stadium and Inter&Co Stadium
- Philadelphia – Lincoln Financial Field
- Seattle – Lumen Field
- Washington D.C. – Audi Field
The final will be played at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, which has a capacity of 82,500 spectators.
Competition Schedule
- Group Stage: June 14th – 26th
- Round of 16: June 28th – July 1st
- Quarterfinals: July 4th – 5th
- Semifinals: July 8th – 9th
- Final: July 13th
Groups
- Group A: Palmeiras, Porto, Al Ahly, Inter Miami
- Group B: Paris Saint-Germain, Atlético Madrid, Botafogo, Seattle Sounders
- Group C: Bayern Munich, Benfica, Boca Juniors, Auckland City
- Group D: Flamengo, Chelsea, Espérance de Tunis, Club León
- Group E: Manchester City, Juventus, Mamelodi Sundowns, Urawa Red Diamonds
- Group F: Real Madrid, Al-Hilal, Wydad Casablanca, Ulsan HD
- Group G: River Plate, Borussia Dortmund, Monterrey, Al-Ain
- Group H: Fluminense, Inter, Pachuca, Red Bull Salzburg
Key Dates and Matches
- Tournament Opening: June 14th – Palmeiras vs. Porto
- Group Stage Finale: June 26th
- Final: July 13th at MetLife Stadium
The tournament promises a top-tier football spectacle featuring the world's best clubs.
Tournament Infrastructure and Logistics
The United States as the host of the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 utilizes existing, yet exceptionally modern sports infrastructure that has successfully hosted major sports and music events for years. The host cities were selected not only for the size and capacity of their stadiums but also for the availability of international airports, hotel accommodation, and overall tourist offerings.
The tournament organizers have placed great emphasis on sustainability and accessibility. For instance, all stadiums are connected by public transport, and digital solutions provide quick and easy access to information about match schedules, stadium entrances, and accommodation capacities.
Importance of the Tournament for Global Football
This expanded edition of the Club World Cup significantly changes the dynamics of world football. Instead of the previous formula with fewer participants, now 32 clubs from all parts of the world have the opportunity to represent their region, which brings a higher level of competition, but also greater opportunities for global promotion.
Success in this tournament brings not only sporting prestige but also significant financial income, global visibility, and a chance for players to establish themselves on the international stage. Numerous coaches and analysts have already commented that this championship will also impact tactics and transfers in the upcoming seasons.
Players to Watch
Numerous top footballers will compete in this tournament, including stars from European, South American, as well as Asian and African clubs. Among the most prominent names are:
- Erling Haaland (Manchester City)
- Vinícius Jr. (Real Madrid)
- Kylian Mbappé (Paris Saint-Germain)
- Florian Wirtz (Bayer Leverkusen)
- Mohamed El Shenawy (Al Ahly)
- Sebastián Driussi (Inter Miami)
- Germán Cano (Fluminense)
- Karim Benzema (Al-Ittihad, former player who might play as a reinforcement)
At the same time, the tournament is an excellent opportunity for young talents to prove themselves on the world stage. Scouts from the biggest European clubs will attend the matches, increasing the importance of every appearance.
Coaching Legends and Tactical Points of Interest
With numerous experienced and charismatic coaches, such as Pep Guardiola, Carlo Ancelotti, and Jorge Jesus, the 2025 Club World Cup also offers a wealth of tactical approaches. A diverse spectrum of playing styles is expected, from high-intensity pressing games to controlled possession and rapid transitions.
The tournament will also serve as a laboratory for new ideas that will likely shape the future of world club football. It will be particularly interesting to observe how Asian and African clubs cope with European dominance and whether the time has come for a shift in the balance of power.
Global Interest and TV Broadcasts
It is estimated that this tournament will attract hundreds of millions of viewers worldwide. Thanks to global partnerships and numerous broadcast channels, fans from all time zones will have the opportunity to watch the matches live.
Particularly high interest is expected in South America, Europe, and Asia, where football is part of daily culture. For the organizers, this also represents a major challenge in terms of coordination and ensuring the best possible viewer experience.
Fan Culture and Atmosphere
Given that each club comes with its rich history and loyal fans, an explosive atmosphere is expected in the stadiums. From famous European fan groups to passionate South American stands, each stadium will be transformed into a festival of colors, songs, and emotions.
Fans will be able to experience different styles of support, from drums and flags to choreographies organized by the clubs themselves. The host, the United States, is known for its logistical excellence, meaning a seamless experience is expected for all visitors.
Favorites and Surprises
European giants like Manchester City, Real Madrid, and Bayern are most often mentioned as favorites to win the tournament, but Brazilian and Argentine representatives will not be without chances either. Flamengo and River Plate come with strong squads and a tradition of winning international competitions.
Also, many analysts warn that surprises could happen. Clubs like Al-Hilal, Mamelodi Sundowns, or even Inter Miami with home support, could display an enviable level of play and surprise the favorites.
Technical and Digital Support for the Tournament
Featuring the latest technologies, including the VAR system, goal-line technology, and digital analytics, the tournament will be among the most advanced to date. FIFA has announced partnerships with technology companies that will enable detailed real-time performance analysis, which will be useful not only for coaches but also for viewers via interactive applications.
Fans will be able to track statistics, choose camera angles, and participate in virtual match analyses via apps, further enhancing the level of engagement and entertainment.
Tickets for the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup in the United States
Sales Phases and Ticket Availability
Ticket sales for the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup began on December 19th, 2024, for group stage matches, while sales for the knockout stage began on January 16th, 2025. Tickets are available through the official FIFA platform and Ticketmaster, and sales operate on a "first come, first served" basis. Each person can purchase up to ten tickets per match, with a maximum of seven matches per household.
Ticket Prices
- Group Stage: Tickets start from $30 USD, with most prices ranging between $60 and $300 USD, depending on the match and selected seat.
- Round of 16: Ticket prices start from $80 USD.
- Quarterfinals: Tickets are available from $140 USD.
- Semifinals: The cheapest tickets start around $350 USD.
- Final: Tickets are available at prices over $600 USD.
Ticket Packages and Additional Options
FIFA offers special ticket packages that include two tickets with an option to purchase a third. These packages allow fans to attend multiple matches at more favorable prices.
Accessibility and Special Needs
Tournament organizers have provided extensive support for fans with special needs. Each host stadium has secured accessible entrances, special seating areas with extra space, and restrooms adapted for people with disabilities. Tickets for wheelchair users and their companions are also available. Booking such tickets is recommended in advance as their number is limited, and demand is high.
Information on the exact number of accessible seats and conditions of use varies by stadium, so fans are advised to check the details when selecting the matches they wish to attend. Special digital support and a contact center provide additional instructions and assistance with ticket purchases.
Digital Tickets and Delivery
All fans who purchase tickets will access them via mobile devices, as the tournament is organized entirely with a digital ticketing system. Tickets will be delivered in digital format approximately 72 hours before each match and will be linked to the buyer's personal identity. Each ticket contains a unique QR code that is scanned upon entry to the stadium.
This digital model provides greater security, eliminates the risk of counterfeiting, and significantly simplifies the stadium entry process. Fans are encouraged to download the official tournament organizer's app in advance, through which they can manage their tickets, receive notifications about changes, and access information related to their seat, entrance, row, and sector.
Stadium entry is possible only by presenting the digital ticket on a smartphone – paper versions will not be accepted, further contributing to the event's environmental sustainability.
Recommendations for Fans
- Planning: Given the limited availability of tickets, timely planning and purchase are recommended.
- Accommodation: Host cities offer a wide range of accommodation options, but due to high demand, advance booking is recommended.
- Travel: Organize transportation to the stadium in advance, considering potential traffic and security checks.
Fan Experience and Stadium Amenities
The organizers of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup have announced numerous amenities at the stadiums that will provide fans with an unforgettable experience. Special fan zones are planned at each stadium with interactive activities, entertainment for all ages, and gastronomic offerings reflecting the diversity of local and international cuisines.
Fan shops with exclusive souvenirs and collectible items related to the tournament and clubs will also be available. Musical events before and after matches are planned at some stadiums, including performances by famous artists and DJs, further enriching the overall atmosphere.
Travel within the United States
For fans planning to visit more than one city, the tournament organization envisages coordination with partners from the transport sector. Special options for air, train, and bus travel between host cities are available. Most stadiums are located near international airports and are well connected by public transport, ensuring easy arrival and departure from matches.
Using travel planning apps that offer up-to-date information on traffic conditions, weather, and safety recommendations is also recommended. Fans traveling by their own vehicles are advised to book parking spaces in advance, as capacities around the stadiums will be limited.
Security Measures and Code of Conduct
The safety of all tournament participants – fans, players, and staff – is the main priority of the organizers. Rigorous security measures will be implemented at each stadium, including checks of tickets, identification documents, and personal belongings.
Fans will have to pass through security checks at the entrance and adhere to clearly marked rules of conduct. The prohibition of bringing weapons, pyrotechnics, glass bottles, and other dangerous items will be strictly enforced. Special entry lanes for families with children and people with special needs will also be provided.
Organizers call on all visitors to behave with dignity and respect towards other fans, regardless of club affiliation, and to avoid any forms of discrimination and violence.
Mobile Apps and Digital Platforms
To make the fan experience as complete as possible, an official tournament mobile app has been developed, allowing users to track results, schedules, statistics, and team information. The app also allows for personalization – users can mark their favorite clubs, follow their performances, and receive automatic notifications about changes or important events.
Additionally, the app allows users to view interactive stadium maps, find the exact locations of seats, nearest restrooms, food and drink points, and emergency exits. All information is available in multiple languages, and live support is available 24/7 throughout the tournament.
Special Benefits for Early Purchase
Although organizers have not officially communicated discounts, it is known that early ticket purchase often brings additional benefits, including a better choice of seats and access to exclusive events. Fans buying tickets for multiple matches may also receive priority for additional ticket allocation, which is important for those planning to follow their club throughout the tournament.
Some fan categories, such as students and seniors, may qualify for special ticket prices upon presentation of valid identification documents, depending on the stadium and local rules.
Impact on the Local Economy
The Club World Cup brings numerous benefits to the host cities – from increased spending in hospitality and tourism to the employment of thousands of people in event organization. Hotels, restaurants, taxi services, and travel agencies are recording a significant increase in interest, confirming the long-term value of the tournament for local communities.
Host cities are investing additional funds in infrastructure to ensure the best possible visitor experience, including renovating public spaces, adding public transport lines, and enhancing security capacities.
Fan Reactions and Expectations
Fan reactions to the announcement and format of the tournament have been extremely positive. The fact that many clubs from outside Europe have been given the opportunity to compete against the world's strongest teams in a systematic and comprehensive tournament is particularly welcomed.
Numerous comments of excitement, anticipation, and pride can be read on social media and fan forums, especially among fans from South America, Africa, and Asia. Fans are particularly interested in their clubs' performances on the big world stage and eagerly await matches that will be remembered.
Practical Information for Travelers from Outside the USA
Foreign visitors are recommended to check the visa requirements for entry into the United States in a timely manner and secure all necessary documents, including travel insurance. It is also advisable to follow health recommendations and potential epidemiological measures that might be in effect.
For travel within the country, using internationally recognized mobile apps for booking accommodation, transportation, and local attractions is recommended, significantly facilitating stay planning. Fans from different parts of the world have highlighted how modern technology helps them achieve simple and safe travel to their destinations.