FIFA President Infantino Champions Club World Cup as Football’s Global Leap

As the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 kicks off in the United States, FIFA president Gianni Infantino has described the tournament as a pivotal moment in football history, comparable to the inaugural World Cup in 1930.

In a conversation with AFP, Infantino stated, “It starts a new era of football, a new era of club football. A little bit like when, in 1930, the first World Cup, right, started.” He stressed the historic nature of the event, noting its potential to be remembered as a landmark in the sport.

The tournament features 32 clubs from all six football confederations, expanding participation beyond the traditional European and South American elite. “We want to be inclusive. We want to give opportunities to clubs from all over the world,” Infantino said, emphasizing the goal to truly globalize football.

He highlighted that players from over 80 countries will compete, many of whom would not have had the chance to appear on a World Cup stage. Referencing George Weah, the African Ballon d’Or winner who never played in a World Cup, Infantino said, “He would have been playing in a Club World Cup and made not only his club and also his country proud.”

Addressing ticket sales and scheduling concerns, Infantino defended FIFA’s dynamic pricing and student discounts, saying, “We don’t want to see empty stadiums. I believe the stadiums will be pretty full.” He also noted the unique availability of free streaming on DAZN.

The tournament’s $1 billion broadcasting deal marks a commercial success, with all funds reinvested into football. Infantino said he will assess the event’s success by its inclusivity, economic impact, and fan engagement, expressing confidence in positive outcomes.

Security is a top priority amid protests near Los Angeles venues, with FIFA closely coordinating with local authorities to ensure fan safety.