In a significant development for Major League Soccer (MLS), Inter Miami is poised to be announced as the final participant in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, according to sources close to source.
This news comes as a major boost to the league’s global reputation and reinforces its growing influence in the world of soccer.
The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup: A New Format
The upcoming tournament marks a significant departure from its previous format, expanding from seven teams to 32.
This change reflects FIFA’s efforts to increase global participation and create a more inclusive competition.
The new format allocates spots to confederations as follows:
• Europe (UEFA) – 12 spots
• South America (CONMEBOL) – 6 spots
• North America and the Caribbean (Concacaf) – 4 spots (+1 additional invite)
• Asia (AFC) – 4 spots
• Africa (CAF) – 4 spots
• Oceania (OFC) – 1 spot
Top Teams Confirmed
Several top-tier teams have already secured their spots in the tournament, including:
✓ Manchester City, winners of the 2022-23 UEFA Champions League
✓ Real Madrid, winners of the 2021-22 and 2023-24 UEFA Champions League
✓ Monterrey, winners of the 2021 Concacaf Champions Cup
✓ Seattle Sounders, winners of the 2022 Concacaf Champions Cup
✓ León, winners of the 2023 Concacaf Champions Cup
✓ Pachuca, winners of the 2024 Concacaf Champions Cup
Concacaf’s Additional Invite
In a significant move, Concacaf received an additional invite to the tournament, thanks to the United States hosting the Club World Cup.
Read Also: Inter Miami Ready For 2025 Club World Cup Bid, Says Martino
FIFA reserved the right to choose the final Concacaf participant and awarded the spot to Inter Miami, the 2024 Supporters’ Shield winner.
MLS commissioner Don Garber emphasized that FIFA made the final selection, highlighting the league’s growing influence.
Lionel Messi to Lead Inter Miami
Global soccer superstar Lionel Messi will spearhead Inter Miami’s campaign in the tournament.
Messi’s participation is expected to draw massive attention and excitement, further elevating the profile of MLS.
Host Stadiums Revealed
FIFA announced the 12 host stadiums for the tournament:
1. MetLife Stadium (East Rutherford, New Jersey) – Final venue
2. Mercedes-Benz Stadium (Atlanta)
3. Bank of America Stadium (Charlotte, North Carolina)
4. TQL Stadium (Cincinnati)
5. Rose Bowl Stadium (Pasadena, California)
6. Hard Rock Stadium (Miami)
7. GEODIS Park (Nashville, Tennessee)
8. Camping World Stadium (Orlando, Florida)
9. Inter&Co Stadium (Orlando, Florida)
10. Lincoln Financial Field (Philadelphia)
11. Lumen Field (Seattle)
12. Audi Field (Washington, D.C.)
Implications for MLS
Inter Miami‘s participation in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup marks a significant milestone for MLS.
This development solidifies the league’s presence on the global soccer stage, demonstrating its growing competitiveness and appeal.
As MLS continues to attract top talent and expand its global reach, its influence in the soccer world is undeniable.
The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup promises to be an exciting and highly competitive tournament, featuring the best teams from around the globe.
With Inter Miami’s participation, MLS fans will have a unique opportunity to witness their team compete against the world’s elite.
