LAFC, Club America to Playoff for Club World Cup Spot After León's Appeal Denied

Club Leon has been officially expelled from the 2025 Club World Cup after the Court of Arbitration for Sport upheld FIFA's decision, citing violations of multi-club ownership rules due to both Leon and Pachuca being owned by Grupo Pachuca. As a result, FIFA will stage a one-off playoff between Los Angeles FC (LAFC) and Club America to determine who will take Leon’s place in Group D alongside Chelsea, Flamengo, and Esperance Sportive de Tunis. LAFC earned their spot as runners-up in the 2023 Concacaf Champions League, while Club America is the highest-ranked Concacaf team not already qualified. Appeals from other clubs, including Costa Rican side Alajuelense, were also rejected. The date and venue for the playoff have not yet been finalized, but reports suggest it could occur on May 31, with the winner securing a lucrative place in the expanded tournament. This resolution follows months of legal disputes and unsuccessful attempts by Leon to restructure its ownership in compliance with tournament regulations.