Historic 32-team showpiece runs from June 14 to July 13 as prep for FIFA World Cup 2026
The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup kicks off on June 14, heralding a new era of club competition with an unprecedented 32-team expanded format. For the first time in history, champions from every corner of the footballing world will descend on the United States, vying not only for continental bragging rights but for global glory. This bold expansion doubles the tournament’s size and elevates its profile, setting the stage for five weeks of nonstop, high-stakes drama.
Clubs from all six confederations will compete, featuring Europe’s finest alongside South America’s most storied sides. Twelve UEFA champions, including the reigning holders and domestic giants, bring formidable pedigree, while CONMEBOL contributes six of its toughest title-winners. Teams from the AFC, CAF and CONCACAF add fresh intrigue, each battle-hardened in fiercely competitive regional leagues. Oceania’s representative and the host-nation’s selected club complete a truly global line-up, ensuring every match ignites passionate support among diverse fan bases.
Across five weeks, matches will take place in twelve iconic U.S. stadiums. The tournament opens at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens on June 14, setting the tone for the group stage, which runs until June 26. Fixtures then move on to venues like the Rose Bowl in Pasadena and Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, among others. Knockout rounds begin with the Round of 16 (June 28–July 1) and quarter-finals (July 4–5), leading to semi-finals on July 8–9 and the final at MetLife Stadium on July 13.
More than a standalone event, the Club World Cup serves as a critical dress rehearsal for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup, offering organizers and teams alike the opportunity to fine-tune operations and strategies ahead of football’s grandest stage. With expansive media coverage, advanced VAR and broadcast technologies in play, logistical frameworks will be stress-tested, ensuring a seamless showcase for tens of thousands of travelling supporters. Players and staff will gain invaluable experience adapting to U.S. venues and climates, sharpening competitive edges for next year’s global festival.
Fans around the world are already planning travel packages to witness this unprecedented club festival. From supporters crossing continents to local communities rallying behind hometown heroes, the tournament promises unforgettable atmospheres. Digital platforms will buzz with live updates, tactical analysis and behind-the-scenes content, giving enthusiasts unparalleled access to every moment. As June approaches and excitement reaches fever pitch, the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup stands poised to redefine international club competition for years to come.
