Daijiworld Media Network – Miami
Miami, Jun 13: FIFA president Gianni Infantino has hailed the 2025 Club World Cup, which kicks off on Saturday, as a "historic milestone" for global football, likening it to the inaugural World Cup held in Uruguay in 1930. With 32 clubs from across continents competing, Infantino believes this new format signals a transformative chapter for the beautiful game.
Speaking to AFP ahead of the tournament’s launch match between Inter Miami and Egyptian giants Al Ahly at the Hard Rock Stadium, Infantino declared, “This tournament starts a new era for club football. Just like how the world remembers the first World Cup in 1930, people will look back at this one.”
He noted that while the original World Cup was limited to European and South American teams, the 2025 Club World Cup reflects FIFA’s commitment to inclusivity, offering clubs from Africa, Asia, North America and beyond a stage to shine.
“This is about truly globalising football,” he explained. “We talk about football being the number one sport in the world, and that’s true. But elite football has long been concentrated in very few countries. This tournament opens doors.”
Highlighting the opportunity for players from over 80 nations, Infantino added, “Many countries that may never qualify for a World Cup now have representation at the Club World Cup. Fans of these players and their clubs finally have a chance to be part of a global spectacle.”
Citing legendary African player George Weah, Infantino said, “He never played in a World Cup, but with a Club World Cup like this, he could have made not only his club but his entire country proud.”
Infantino also addressed criticism surrounding FIFA’s dynamic ticket pricing and concerns about fixture congestion. While acknowledging low initial turnout for some matches, he remained optimistic.
“As soon as the ball starts rolling, people will understand the value of this event. This is something special,” he affirmed.
Defending discounted ticket offers for students in Miami, Infantino remarked, “When I was a student, I couldn’t afford expensive tickets. Giving students a chance to watch World Cup-level football is something positive.”
He further emphasised that all revenues from the tournament, including the $1 billion global broadcasting deal with DAZN, would be reinvested into the game. “This is not about profit—it’s about growth,” he stated.
The tournament’s schedule coincides with rising tensions in the US over immigration issues, with matches in cities like Los Angeles witnessing protests. Infantino assured that FIFA is closely monitoring the situation.
“Security is always a top priority,” he said. “We are in regular contact with local authorities. Fans must feel safe when attending games.”
As football fans worldwide tune in—many via DAZN’s free streams—Infantino believes the success of the 2025 Club World Cup will be measured not just in numbers but in impact.
“We’ll evaluate everything at the end,” he said. “But when I see the tickets sold, the global interest, and what it means to players and fans around the world—I already feel it’s a success.”