15 July 2025
Press reports revealed that FIFA has begun studying proposals to amend the qualification system for the next edition of the Club World Cup in an attempt to avoid missing out on top European clubs.
The first edition of the tournament, in its new 32-team format, held in the United States this month, saw the absence of prominent teams such as Barcelona, Liverpool, AC Milan, and Manchester United, sparking much controversy over the approved qualification mechanism.
According to reports, FIFA is considering several new scenarios, including holding play-off matches between major clubs that did not automatically qualify, to give them an additional opportunity to participate in the event of vacant spots.
The proposed proposals also include amending the maximum number of clubs represented by each country and granting additional places to clubs with a higher ranking or distinguished European record, with the aim of ensuring the presence of the strongest teams and ensuring a higher level of competitiveness.
It's worth noting that the next edition of the Club World Cup will be held in the summer of 2029. The host country has yet to be determined, with Australia, Qatar, Brazil, and a joint bid from Spain and Portugal having submitted official bids to host the global event.
