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FIFA’s Gianni Infantino called the Club World Cup the world’s top club competition, citing $2.1B in revenue.
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He dismissed criticism and noted rising interest from clubs.
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The next edition is set for 2029, with possible expansion.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino proclaimed the expanded 32-team Club World Cup “the most successful club competition in the world” on the eve of the Paris Saint-Germain vs. Chelsea final.
Also Read: PSG vs Chelsea: Club World Cup Final Prize, Earnings Breakdown
Despite doubts over player fatigue and U.S. summer heat, Infantino highlighted solid crowds and record revenues.
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“We generated nearly $2.1 billion over 63 matches—an average of $33 million per game—surpassing any other club tournament globally,” – he told reporters at FIFA’s Trump Tower office in New York.
Critics such as former Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp called the format “the worst idea ever,” but Infantino rejected the claim that Europe broadly shares that view.
He pointed out that non-qualifying clubs even contacted FIFA to explore a spot, underlining the event’s elite pull.
Although heavyweights like Liverpool, Arsenal and Barcelona missed out this time, Infantino insisted that strict qualification rules guarantee top-level competition.
He confirmed the next edition will run in 2029 and left the door open for a biennial cycle or further growth.
“We’ve created something new and enduring that is reshaping club football,” – he said, cementing the tournament’s permanent place on the global calendar.
Record-breaking revenue and rising interest despite scepticism show the Club World Cup will redefine how the world’s best clubs compete.
