Clubs set to participate in next summer’s Club World Cup are mandated to field their strongest teams, ensuring a competitive tournament. FIFA’s newly expanded 32-team tournament is scheduled from June 15 to July 13, 2025, in the United States.
The prestigious event will feature Manchester City and Chelsea as the only English representatives. FIFA regulations restrict clubs from allowing players to miss the tournament following a grueling domestic and European season. Additionally, member associations of participating teams will have the opportunity to open their transfer windows from June 1-10, 2025, enabling clubs to register new signings before the tournament commences.
Clubs will also have the ability to replace players during a limited in-competition period from June 27 to July 3, adhering to specific guidelines, which include the requirement for an open standard registration window at the time. Players whose contracts expire on June 30, 2025, can opt to extend their deals until July 13, ensuring their availability throughout the tournament.
The tournament will enforce strict regulations, prohibiting any player from competing for more than one team. Participation in the Club World Cup will not count towards limitations on the number of clubs a player can represent in a single season, and there will be no obligation for clubs to release players for international duty during the event.
These new regulations were established during the FIFA Council meeting in Zurich, highlighting FIFA’s commitment to showcasing the best talent and ensuring a level playing field among all competing clubs.
With the excitement of the Club World Cup building, European clubs are also engaged in discussions regarding a proposal to synchronize the closing of summer transfer windows before the mid-August season kickoff.
What is the Club World Cup?
The Club World Cup, prior to its revamp for the 2025 tournament, was held annually in December, featuring winners from global continental club competitions. With the expansion to 32 teams occurring every four years, the tournament aims to elevate the competition’s prestige. An annual Intercontinental Cup will now serve as a replacement for the previous yearly format.
How does the tournament work?
The tournament format mirrors that of the FIFA World Cup, with 32 teams divided into eight groups of four. The top two teams from each group progress to the knockout stage, which leads to the quarter-finals, semi-finals, and final, with no third-place playoff.
When is the draw?
The draw for the 2025 Club World Cup is scheduled for December 2024.
Who is taking part in the 2025 Club World Cup?
Europe:
- Manchester City
- Real Madrid
- Chelsea
- Bayern Munich
- Paris Saint-Germain
- Inter Milan
- Porto
- Benfica
- Borussia Dortmund
- Juventus
- Red Bull Salzburg
- Atletico Madrid
South America:
- Palmeiras
- Flamengo
- Fluminense
- River Plate
- Boca Juniors
- TBD (based on winner of 2024 Copa Libertadores)
North America:
- Monterrey
- Seattle Sounders
- Leon
- Pachuca
- TBC (host nation slot)
Africa:
- Al Ahly
- Wydad
- Esperance de Tunis
- Mamelodi Sundowns
Asia:
- Al Hilal
- Urawa Red Diamonds
- Al Ain
- Ulsan HD
