FIFA Holds Emergency Meeting for Club World Cup

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has convened an emergency meeting with global television executives to address significant concerns surrounding the upcoming 32-team Club World Cup, set to debut in the United States from June 15 to July 13, 2025. The organization has yet to secure any broadcast deals, venues, sponsors, or confirm financial payouts to participating clubs, leading to dissatisfaction among major teams like Manchester City and Bayern Munich, who were anticipating over $50 million each. Complications have arisen due to failed negotiations with Apple and scheduling conflicts with other major sporting events, which have made broadcasters hesitant to commit. Additionally, the absence of popular clubs such as Manchester United and Liverpool has diminished potential viewer interest. FIFA is under pressure to finalize critical details within the next nine months, while also facing legal challenges from player unions regarding the tournament's impact on player workloads. Infantino is working to involve club representatives more closely in the planning process in hopes of alleviating these issues.