FIFA Weighs 48‑Team Club World Cup Amid European Pressure

ZURICH — FIFA is exploring a dramatic expansion of its flagship Club World Cup, considering growing the revamped event from 32 to 48 teams by 2029, according to sources. The move comes after several high-profile European clubs that missed out on the inaugural $1 billion tournament pressed for inclusion.

Reworking the global club calendar, FIFA plans to debrief stakeholders after this summer’s U.S.-hosted debut, which features Chelsea, Manchester City, Real Madrid, and more, and decide on format changes. European heavyweights—Barcelona, Arsenal, Liverpool, and others—narrowly missed qualification due to continental caps and the two‑club‑per‑nation rule

A successful launch could propel expansion in line with FIFA’s broader vision. Having already secured a $1 billion TV rights deal with DAZN and Saudi public firm PIF, FIFA is betting on further growth. The governing body routinely structures events to mirror its expanded 48‑team World Cups

Still, the modified Club World Cup program faces criticism. Player unions and leagues in Europe warn of fixture overload, and clubs fear burnout. Former England keeper David James cautioned against imposing the revamped format too early, calling it “a joke” until safeguards are in place

🔍 What’s New

• Participant numbers: The next edition (2025) includes 32 clubs; leaders are eyeing a 48‑team format for 2029

• Qualification reform: UEFA may gain a higher team count, removing caps that barred giants like Barcelona from 2025 field

• Tech & safety: Offside decisions at the 2025 tournament will use semi‑automated VAR tools to protect player health

• Prize money: The revamped tournament offers a $1 billion prize pool, and $125 million to the winner

💬 Reaction & Concerns

European clubs: London and Merseyside sides are lobbying for reform. FIFA is expected to respond post-event .

FIFA: President Gianni Infantino has framed the Club World Cup as a cornerstone of a “globally integrated football calendar”.

Critics: Burnout remains a key worry. FIFPro and the World Leagues Forum have filed regulatory complaints in Europe, calling the schedule “unsustainable” .

Analyst view: With a 48‑team model, the Club World Cup could emerge as a premier global event. But this hinges on balancing quality, player welfare, and commercial interests. The post-2025 review will prove decisive.