The revamped FIFA Club World Cup kicks off this weekend in the United States, with 32 clubs from around the world set to compete in the expanded format.
Europe leads the lineup with 12 teams, followed by six from South America. Asia, Africa, and CONCACAF are each sending four clubs, with Oceania contributing one and the host nation filling the final two slots.
This new version of the tournament, which FIFA plans to stage every four years, allows clubs to qualify either by winning their continental competitions between 2021 and 2024 or through consistent performances in those tournaments over a four-year period.
Continental Champions (16 teams):
- UEFA: Chelsea (2021), Real Madrid (2022, 2024), Manchester City (2023)
- CONMEBOL: Palmeiras (2021), Flamengo (2022), Fluminense (2023), Botafogo (2024)
- AFC: Al Hilal (2021), Urawa Red Diamonds (2022), Al Ain (2023, 2024)
- CONCACAF: Monterrey (2021), Seattle Sounders (2022), Pachuca (2024)
- CAF: Al Ahly (2021, 2023, 2024), Wydad Casablanca (2022)
- OFC: Auckland City (2022, 2023, 2024)
Four-Year Ranking Entrants (14 teams):
- Europe: Bayern Munich, Paris Saint-Germain, Borussia Dortmund, Inter Milan, Porto, Atletico Madrid, Benfica, Juventus, Red Bull Salzburg
- South America: River Plate, Boca Juniors
- Asia: Ulsan HD
- Africa: Esperance, Mamelodi Sundowns
Host Nation Representatives (2 teams):
Inter Miami secured their spot by topping the 2024 MLS regular season table. Although LA Galaxy won the MLS Cup, Inter Miami’s Supporters’ Shield win was the decisive factor.
LAFC claimed the final berth after defeating Club America in a play-in match. That spot became available when FIFA barred Mexico’s Club Leon from the tournament due to ownership conflict—Leon and Pachuca are both controlled by Grupo Pachuca.
The United States now prepares to host what FIFA hopes will become a marquee event on the global club football calendar.
