Europe's leading football clubs have threatened to boycott the 2025 Club World Cup, according to a leaked letter seen by the Guardian. The clubs, including Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Manchester City, are furious at FIFA's decision to expand the tournament to 32 teams, which they say would overload players and disrupt pre-season schedules.
FIFA's expanded plan
The new format, announced in March, would see the tournament held every four years, starting in the summer of 2025. It would feature 12 European teams, with the rest coming from other continents. FIFA has already signed a $2.5bn deal with a consortium of investors to broadcast and market the event.
However, the European Club Association (ECA), which represents over 200 clubs, has warned that the tournament would clash with the traditional pre-season tours and could force players to play more than 70 matches a season. The letter, sent to FIFA president Gianni Infantino, states that the clubs are 'unanimously opposed' to the plan and will consider legal action if it goes ahead.
Clubs' concerns
The clubs argue that the expanded Club World Cup would undermine the value of domestic leagues and the Champions League, and would place an undue burden on players' health. They also claim that FIFA has not consulted them properly, despite promising a 'partnership' approach.
The letter concludes by saying that the clubs 'reserve all rights' to take 'all necessary measures' to protect their interests, including a boycott. FIFA has not yet responded publicly to the threat.
