Messi, Inter Miami Set to Compete in Expanded FIFA Club World Cup

Posted : 20 October 2024

Lionel Messi and Inter Miami will participate in the expanded FIFA Club World Cup next year, as announced by FIFA President Gianni Infantino. This significant tournament is set to kick off on June 15, 2025, at Hard Rock Stadium, the home of the NFL's Miami Dolphins. Infantino made this announcement shortly after Messi's impressive hat-trick led Miami to a record-breaking 6-2 victory over the New England Revolution, which also allowed the team to secure the Major League Soccer's Supporters' Shield for the best regular season record.

Inter Miami qualified for the tournament as the representative of the host nation, following their exceptional performance throughout the MLS season, which culminated in them winning the shield with two matches still to play. FIFA recognized the team's achievement, emphasizing that their consistent performance over a 34-match campaign justified their selection. The official MLS champions will be determined through the playoffs that start next week, with the final scheduled for December 7. Although Miami is favoured to win the playoffs, their participation in the Club World Cup is guaranteed due to their regular-season success.

Messi's involvement in the tournament is expected to significantly elevate its profile, particularly in the United States, ahead of the 2026 World Cup. This will mark Messi's first opportunity to compete against top European clubs since his departure from Paris Saint-Germain last year. The expanded tournament will feature 32 teams, including champions from each of FIFA's continental confederations. Notable European teams already qualified include Real Madrid, Manchester City, and Bayern Munich, while South American representatives include River Plate, Boca Juniors, and Flamengo.

Despite the excitement surrounding the tournament, it has faced criticism, particularly from players' unions and European leagues, who have expressed concerns about the potential congestion it adds to an already packed schedule. A joint complaint was filed with the European Commission against FIFA regarding the tournament's integration into the international match calendar. The previous version of the Club World Cup featured seven teams in a knockout format, with Manchester City emerging as the last champion after defeating Brazil's Fluminense in the final held in Saudi Arabia. FIFA plans to host the expanded tournament every four years, although the host for the 2029 edition has yet to be determined.

Messi, Inter Miami Set to Compete in Expanded FIFA Club World Cup

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