US Readiness for 2026 World Cup in Doubt After Club Event
US struggles during Club World Cup raise concerns over preparedness for hosting 2026 FIFA World Cup, spotlighting infrastructure and fan experience issues.

FIFA Club World Cup 2025: A Global Magnet for International Soccer Fans
The Countdown Begins for the 2025 Club World Cup in the USA
Soccer fans worldwide are eagerly anticipating the expanded FIFA Club World Cup 2025, set to take place in the United States. With excitement building across all continents, this event is shaping up to be more than just a tournament—it's a global celebration of football and culture.
What Makes the 2025 Tournament Different?
This edition will be the first expanded Club World Cup, featuring 32 of the world’s top club teams. Set to kick off in June and run for a month, the format mirrors that of the FIFA Men’s World Cup. This offers fans an extended opportunity to experience the tournament with more matches and a wider variety of playing styles on display.
Key Changes:
- 32 teams from around the globe
- Hosted in the United States—the first time since the 1994 World Cup for a major international men’s tournament
- One-month duration, allowing for extensive fan engagement and city-wide celebrations
A Diverse International Audience Anticipated
The United States, with its large and diverse immigrant population, is uniquely positioned to attract a global fan base. From Mexican and Brazilian communities to European and African diasporas, fans will be able to follow their hometown clubs live for the first time in North America.
Ticket demand is expected to be high as supporters plan to travel from around the world to cheer for teams like Real Madrid, Manchester City, Palmeiras, and Al Ahly.
Economic and Cultural Impact on Host Cities
Beyond the action on the pitch, host cities across the U.S. are preparing for a massive influx of international visitors. This is expected to bring significant boosts to local economies through tourism, hospitality, and retail.
Anticipated Benefits:
- Increased hotel and restaurant revenues
- Job opportunities in the service and event sectors
- Global visibility and media coverage for host cities
A Warm-Up for the 2026 FIFA World Cup
The 2025 Club World Cup will also serve as a test event ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which the U.S. will co-host with Canada and Mexico. Organizers are expecting the Club World Cup to provide invaluable logistics and operational experience leading into the even bigger global competition.
A Festival of Football on American Soil
With elite clubs from every continent and fans arriving from around the globe, the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup promises to be a once-in-a-lifetime football experience for both supporters and players. As anticipation mounts, fans are already marking their calendars and planning their journeys to witness history in the making.