The FIFA Club World Cup is an international football competition contested by the winners of member confederations’ premier club competitions. First held in 2000, this prestigious event has seen football’s giants clash for supremacy. Historically, it featured a smaller number of teams, typically champions from each confederation plus a host nation representative. Real Madrid of Spain stands as the most successful club, boasting five victories (2014, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2022). They are followed by Spanish rivals Barcelona with three triumphs (2009, 2011, 2015), and both Corinthians of Brazil (2000, 2012) and Bayern Munich of Germany (2013, 2020) with two wins apiece.
The tournament is set to undergo a monumental complete overhaul starting in 2025, expanding to a thrilling 32-team format that promises an even more captivating spectacle.
When is the FIFA Club World Cup?
Previously, the FIFA Club World Cup was an annual competition, typically held in December. However, the expanded 2025 event marks a significant overhaul, moving to a quadrennial schedule in June and July. This shift aims to create a more balanced competition calendar and enhance its appeal to broadcasters and sponsors, aligning it more closely with the format of the FIFA World Cup.
The inaugural expanded edition, the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, is scheduled to take place from the 14th June to 13th July 2025.
Where is the FIFA Club World Cup?
Historically, the FIFA Club World Cup has been held in various countries, with previous hosts including Brazil (2000), Japan (2005-2008, 2011-2012, 2015-2016), UAE (2009-2010, 2017-2018, 2021), Morocco (2013-2014, 2022), Qatar (2019-2020), and Saudi Arabia (2023).
The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup will be hosted by the United States. The U.S. was awarded the event as a prelude to its role as co-host for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, marking a significant milestone for the expanded tournament. FIFA selects host nations through a bidding process.
Who is competing in the FIFA Club World Cup?
istorically, the FIFA Club World Cup typically featured 7 clubs: the champions of each of the six continental confederations (AFC, CAF, CONCACAF, CONMEBOL, OFC, UEFA) and one club representing the host nation. Starting with the 2025 edition, the tournament will be a landmark event, contested by an expanded field of 32 teams, marking a significant increase from previous formats.
The slots for the inaugural expanded edition have been allocated as follows:
Host Nation (United States): 1 slot
UEFA (Europe): 12 slots
CONMEBOL (South America): 6 slots
AFC (Asia): 4 slots
CAF (Africa): 4 slots
CONCACAF (North, Central America and Caribbean): 4 slots
OFC (Oceania): 1 slot
How do I get to the FIFA Club World Cup?
Travel to the FIFA Club World Cup largely depends on the host nation and its infrastructure, but general considerations apply for any international event.
Travel information for the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup is available here.
General Travel Tips:
- Flights: Book international flights well in advance, especially as the tournament often takes place during popular travel seasons.
- Visas & Entry Requirements: Always check the specific visa and entry requirements for the host nation well ahead of time. These vary significantly by country and your nationality.
- Passport Validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned date of departure from the host country.
- Travel within the Host Nation: Depending on the host country and venues, you may need to utilize domestic flights, trains, buses, or car rental to travel between match cities.
- Getting to the Stadiums: Research local public transportation, ride-sharing services, or taxi options in each host city.
- Accommodation: Book accommodation early in relevant host cities.
- Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended.
- Cash vs. Card: Familiarise yourself with the local currency and typical payment methods.
How do I get tickets to the FIFA Club World Cup?
Tckets for the FIFA Club World Cup are exclusively sold through official FIFA channels to ensure authenticity and fair pricing.
Ticket information for the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup is available here.
Key Purchasing Tips:
- FIFA Official Ticketing Portal: This is the primary source for all official ticket information and sales, typically accessible via FIFA.com/tickets closer to the tournament date.
- Digital Tickets: FIFA generally issues tickets as digital mobile tickets via the official FIFA Mobile App. Physical tickets are rarely offered.
- Beware of Unofficial Sellers: Always avoid purchasing tickets from unauthorised websites, social media, or touts to prevent fraud and inflated prices.
For the most up-to-date information, always refer to the official FIFA Club World Cup ticketing pages.
Where to stay during the FIFA Club World Cup
Accommodation for the FIFA Club World Cup varies significantly depending on the host nation and specific venues. Planning your stay strategically is crucial.
Ticket information for the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup is available here.
Here’s how to approach finding your ideal stay:
- Book Early: Demand for lodging in host cities will be exceptionally high, especially for major tournaments. Booking well in advance is highly recommended for better rates and availability.
- Consider Accommodation Types: Options typically include hotels (from budget to luxury), vacation rentals (for groups), extended-stay properties, and sometimes hostels, depending on the host city.
- Location, Location, Location!: When choosing, consider proximity to the stadium, access to public transportation, or staying in a vibrant city center that offers more dining and entertainment.
- Check for Official Partners & Packages: FIFA and host organisations often partner with hotel groups or offer hospitality packages that include accommodation.
- Important Considerations: Always review cancellation policies, be aware of local taxes and potential ‘resort fees,’ and check parking availability if renting a car.”
Helpful Links for Planning Your Visit to the FIFA Club World Cup
To help you plan your visit and stay up-to-date with all things about the FIFA Club World Cup, here’s a collection of essential official resources:
Official Tournament Resources:
- FIFA Club World Cup Official Website (Your primary source for all tournament news, fixtures, results, and general information)
- FIFA Club World Cup Official Ticketing Portal (For direct ticket purchases and information on sales phases)
- Official FIFA Mobile App: Download this essential app for mobile tickets, real-time updates, venue maps, and more. Search “FIFA Official App” in your app store.
- Official FIFA Merchandise Store (For official tournament apparel and merchandise)
- Official FIFA Social Media Channels: Stay connected for real-time updates, highlights, and fan content.
- X (formerly Twitter): @FIFAWorldCup and @FIFAcom
- Instagram: @fifaworldcup
- Facebook: @fifaworldcup
Last Updated on June 6, 2025 by Sports Tourist