The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup is nearing its conclusion, and the stage is set for an epic final between Paris Saint-Germain and Chelsea. The tournament, played under a brand-new format, has delivered a month of thrilling action, with 32 clubs from every continent competing for global supremacy. The final will take place this Sunday, July 13, at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
From the very beginning, the competition captured the attention of fans worldwide. The expanded group stage brought more drama and opportunities for surprises, and the knockout rounds saw high-stakes clashes between the sport’s most elite clubs. Teams like Fluminense, Inter Miami, and Real Madrid made headlines during their runs, but in the end, it’s PSG and Chelsea who earned their spot in the final.
While the tournament has largely been a commercial and sporting success, it hasn’t been without criticism. One of the most significant concerns has been the demanding schedule placed on players. Several clubs entered the Club World Cup already fatigued from their domestic campaigns, and the tight turnaround between matches raised questions about player welfare and recovery time.
Despite those challenges, the inaugural edition of the expanded Club World Cup has been hailed as a hit by both fans and organizers. Stadiums across the United States saw high attendance, with an average of 40,000 spectators per game, and global viewership was massive—though official figures are still pending.
Looking ahead: Club World Cup 2029 in the works
With the 2025 edition coming to a close, FIFA is already planning the next tournament. The 2029 Club World Cup is expected to take place during the summer, though the host country has yet to be confirmed. Among the candidates are Morocco–Spain–Portugal, Qatar, and Brazil, each bringing unique advantages and logistical challenges.
see also
Who will host Club World Cup 2029? Four major bids lead the way
What’s more, the next edition could see the tournament expand even further. There are discussions about increasing the number of participating teams from 32 to 48, making it even more inclusive and globally representative.
One thing is certain: after a month of excitement, controversy, and unforgettable moments, the Club World Cup has earned its place as a major fixture on the global soccer calendar.
