Infantino Hails FIFA Club World Cup as Landmark Event Concluding Today

 FIFA President Gianni Infantino has celebrated the expanded FIFA Club World Cup as a landmark achievement in global football, remarks made on July 12, 2025, ahead of its final match today, Sunday, July 13, 2025, at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. 

The 32-team tournament, featuring powerhouses like Real Madrid, Manchester City, Chelsea, and Paris Saint-Germain, concludes its inaugural expanded format, generating $2 billion in revenue and surpassing the seven-team predecessor. Infantino described it as the “world’s most successful competition,” emphasizing its inclusivity across continents.

The event, spanning 12 U.S. cities since June 14, 2025, has tested a new 10-match group stage, with the final pitting Chelsea against PSG. Critics have raised concerns over the $50 million entry cost for smaller clubs and logistical hurdles, including visa issues for some players, but Infantino pointed to a $500 million sponsorship deal and a 15% wage increase for participants as proof of success. 

The tournament’s climax, expected to draw 80,000 fans, follows tributes to Diogo Jota, with players like Pedro Neto dedicating their efforts to his memory. The conclusion marks a bold step in FIFA’s global vision, though its long-term impact remains debated.