FIFA Club World Cup 2025: Format, Teams, Venues, and What to Expect

The FIFA Club World Cup 2025 marks a major expansion of an existing tournament, transforming it into a truly global competition for club football. Previously a small-scale event featuring a handful of teams, FIFA has now revolutionised the format, introducing a 32-team tournament that brings together the best clubs from every continent. With a month-long schedule and the United States as the host nation, this revamped competition is set to become a key fixture in world football.

FIFA’s ‘Groundbreaking Tournament’

While FIFA has organised a Club World Cup since 2000, the previous format featured only seven teams and was held annually. The 2025 edition represents a complete overhaul, expanding the competition to 32 teams and shifting to a quadrennial format—similar to the FIFA World Cup.

The goal? To create a true global championship for clubs, giving teams from every confederation a chance to compete for the biggest prize in world football. FIFA officially announced this expansion in December 2022, outlining its vision to elevate club football beyond regional dominance and establish a new premier international event.

Competition Format

• Teams: 32 clubs from across six continents
• Group Stage: Eight groups of four teams, with the top two from each progressing to the knockout stage
• Knockout Stage: A Round of 16, quarter-finals, semi-finals, and final—all single-leg elimination
• Final: One game to decide the champion
• Dates: June 14 to July 13, 2025

Who’s Playing?

This tournament brings together continental champions, high-performing clubs from each region, and a few wildcard entries. The full lineup of 32 teams has now been confirmed:

European Clubs (UEFA)

• Chelsea (England)
• Real Madrid (Spain)
• Manchester City (England)
• Bayern Munich (Germany)
• Paris Saint-Germain (France)
• Borussia Dortmund (Germany)
• Inter Milan (Italy)
• Porto (Portugal)
• Atlético Madrid (Spain)
• Benfica (Portugal)
• Juventus (Italy)
• Red Bull Salzburg (Austria)

South American Clubs (CONMEBOL)

• Palmeiras (Brazil)
• Flamengo (Brazil)
• Fluminense (Brazil)
• Botafogo (Brazil)
• River Plate (Argentina)
• Boca Juniors (Argentina)

North, Central America, and Caribbean Clubs (CONCACAF)

• Monterrey (Mexico)
• Seattle Sounders (USA)
• León (Mexico)
• Pachuca (Mexico)

African Clubs (CAF)

• Al Ahly (Egypt)
• Wydad Casablanca (Morocco)
• Espérance de Tunis (Tunisia)
• Mamelodi Sundowns (South Africa)

Asian Clubs (AFC)

• Al-Hilal (Saudi Arabia)
• Urawa Red Diamonds (Japan)
• Al-Ain (UAE)
• Ulsan Hyundai (South Korea)

Oceanian Club (OFC)

• Auckland City (New Zealand)

Host Nation Club

• Inter Miami (USA)

Host Nation and Venues

The U.S. is hosting the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, setting the stage for a tournament that doubles as a test run for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The games will be played in 12 stadiums across 11 cities, including:

• Rose Bowl (Pasadena, CA) – A classic venue with an 88,500 capacity, famous for hosting the 1994 FIFA World Cup Final.
• MetLife Stadium (East Rutherford, NJ) – One of the most iconic stadiums in the U.S. and the venue for the final.
• Mercedes-Benz Stadium (Atlanta, GA) – A cutting-edge stadium with a retractable roof and an electric atmosphere.
• Hard Rock Stadium (Miami, FL) – A venue known for big events, from Super Bowls to international football clashes.
• Lumen Field (Seattle, WA) – Home to the Seattle Sounders, known for its passionate fanbase and loud atmosphere.
• Lincoln Financial Field (Philadelphia, PA) – A sports-mad city that will bring energy to every match hosted here.
• Bank of America Stadium (Charlotte, NC) – A hub for soccer in the southeastern U.S., hosting major international games in recent years.
• Camping World Stadium (Orlando, FL) – A historic venue that has hosted World Cup matches and other international tournaments.
• Geodis Park (Nashville, TN) – The newest stadium on the list, designed specifically for soccer and built for atmosphere.
• TQL Stadium (Cincinnati, OH) – A modern soccer-specific stadium with a stunning design and dedicated fan culture.
• Audi Field (Washington, D.C.) – The home of D.C. United, bringing the capital’s energy to the tournament.
• Inter&Co Stadium (Orlando, FL) – A second venue in Orlando, reinforcing Florida’s role as a key host for the tournament.

The tournament kicks off on June 14, 2025, at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami. The Final is scheduled for July 13, 2025, at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.

Storylines to Watch

• Europe vs. South America – Will a Brazilian or Argentine team finally take down a European powerhouse?
• Underdogs to Watch – Could an MLS or Asian club shock the world?
• Star Power – Expect the biggest names in football to be on display.
• The Tournament’s Future – This is FIFA’s first shot at an expanded Club World Cup. If it’s a hit, it could become a major fixture in football’s calendar.

Hospitality and Tickets

FIFA is yet to release full details yet, but expect hospitality packages across all venues, including:

• VIP Suites & Boxes – Private viewing areas with premium service.
• Club Lounges – High-end hospitality with food and drinks included.
• Matchday Experiences – Potential behind-the-scenes access, meet-and-greets, and premium seating.

Ticket sales will go live in phases, so keep an eye out if you’re planning to attend.

Final Thoughts

The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup is set to be a game-changer for club football. A new format, top-tier venues, and world-class teams mean this tournament could be something special. Whether you’re heading to the U.S. for the games or following along from home, it’s one not to miss.

Stay tuned to The Padded Seat for more updates, including hospitality details and insider tips on how to make the most of this historic tournament.