FIFA has announced December 5 as the date for the group stage draw for the inaugural 32-club FIFA Club World Cup, to be held in Miami at 1800 GMT.
This expanded tournament, featuring eight groups of four teams, will take place in the United States from June 15 to July 13, 2025.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino revealed that Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami will open the tournament at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami.
The competition marks a significant shift from previous editions, which included only seven teams, to a larger field with top clubs like Real Madrid, Manchester City, and Bayern Munich.
The top two teams from each group will advance to the knockout rounds, culminating in a final match, with no third-place game.
FIFA plans to hold the tournament every four years, though no host has been confirmed for 2029.
Despite excitement over the new format, the expanded tournament has drawn criticism due to increased player workload, and FIFA has yet to finalize broadcast partnerships.
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