FIFA unveils the new Club World Cup format with 4 African teams
The FIFA Council met ahead of the FIFA Club World Cup semi-finals in Djeddah, Saudi Arabia, and made key decisions regarding the inaugural FIFA Club World Cup, featuring 32 teams, set to take place in the United States in 2025. The official name of the competition will be Mundial de Clubes FIFA, showcasing clubs from each of the six confederations.
Starting from June 15 to July 13, 2025, the new format will be in effect, and the first participating teams have been revealed.
With the tournament taking place every four years, 32 teams will compete, including 12 from Europe, 4 from Africa, 4 from Asia, 4 from North America, 6 from South America, and Auckland City (New Zealand), representing Oceania. An additional slot is reserved for a club from the host country.
Based on approved access principles and the results of respective continental club competitions, the following clubs are already confirmed:
Africa – 4 teams: Al Ahly SC (EGY); Wydad AC (MAR); 2 more to be confirmed;
Asia – 4 teams: Al Hilal SFC (KSA); Urawa Red Diamonds (JPN); 2 more teams to be confirmed;
Europe – 12 teams: Chelsea FC (ENG); Real Madrid CF (ESP); Manchester City FC (ENG); FC Bayern Munich (Germany); Paris Saint-Germain FC (FRA); FC Internazionale (ITA); FC Porto (POR); SL Benfica (POR); 3 more teams to be confirmed;
North, Central America, and Caribbean – 4 teams: CF Monterrey (MEX); Seattle Sounders FC (United States); Club León (MEX); one spot yet to be filled;
Oceania – 1 team: Auckland City FC (NZL).
