FIFA is set to make history with an unprecedented $1 billion prize pool for the 2025 Club World Cup in the United States, a source close to the negotiations revealed on Wednesday.
This massive payout dwarfs the $440 million awarded at the 2022 Men’s World Cup and the $110 million for the 2023 Women’s World Cup, solidifying the tournament’s financial significance.
With 32 teams competing, FIFA has secured major sponsorships from global brands like Coca-Cola, Bank of America, Hisense, and AB InBev. British streaming platform DAZN has also signed a lucrative deal, reportedly worth over $1 billion, to broadcast the tournament worldwide.
Despite its financial allure, the tournament has faced backlash, particularly in Europe, where concerns over player fatigue and scheduling conflicts have sparked debate. FIFPro and the European Leagues association have even lodged complaints with the European Commission against FIFA’s aggressive calendar expansion.
However, some voices, including PSG manager Luis Enrique, have embraced the competition’s potential, calling it an exciting opportunity for clubs and players worldwide.
Set to run from June 14 to July 13 across 12 venues in 11 U.S. cities, the tournament will feature 12 European clubs, six South American teams, and representatives from Asia, Africa, and North America. Auckland City and Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami round out the lineup, with the final showdown taking place at New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium—the same venue for the 2026 FIFA World Cup final.
