In late September, FIFA President Gianni Infantino announced the list of twelve U.S. stadiums set to host the inaugural Club World Cup in 2025.
A month later, Infantino had more exciting news to update fans with. Following their MLS Supporters’ Shield win, Inter Miami CF has clinched one of the final two slots in the FIFA Club World Cup.
The U.S. club has established itself as the best in the MLS over the course of the regular season, with playoffs set to begin on Oct. 23. Miami has been dominant, breaking the MLS single-season record for points with an astounding 74 on their way to 22 wins and only four losses. The Herons are led by legend Lionel Messi, whose extensive FIFA World Cup experience with Argentina should help Miami in the first-of-its-kind Club World Cup.
With their spot in the inaugural tournament secured, Inter Miami CF will become the host country’s representative and kick off the competition on June 15, 2025 in Hard Rock Stadium in their home city.
President Infantino joined the Herons’ Supporters’ Shield celebration to share the good news with the team after their final MLS regular season win against the New England Revolution.
“We all know how Miami is in love with football and how Inter Miami is supported from across Florida and beyond for your exciting brand of football,” he said. “You have shown that in the United States, you are consistently the best club on the field of play.”
The FIFA Club World Cup aims to be the “most inclusive and merit-based” global club competitions in the world through its complex path to earning a tournament bid. Eligible club teams are selected from each of the six continental confederations, based on a mathematical point system to ensure complete objectivity. Inter Miami CF is an exception because they are the sole representative from the host country’s league (MLS).
31 of the 32 participating clubs have been announced, putting all eyes on the CONMEBOL Libertadores final culminating on November 30. Five teams from the league have already qualified, and three of the four remaining semifinalists have a chance to win their way into that last open spot. These clubs include Olimpia Club, Atletico Mineiro, Penarol and Botafogo. With so much left to be determined, and so much at stake, the Libertadores final will undoubtedly be a thrilling one.
Following Miami’s win, Infantino once again set the stage and built anticipation for the global club competition.
He added, “It’s sure to be a great celebration for global club football as the tournament features the best 32 clubs in the world, and provides a new opportunity for clubs, players, coaches, and fans alike to take their stories to the world.”
After the 32nd team is announced, the final step to complete before the tournament is the draw, which will take place in December and provide more information on initial matchups. Catch up on FIFA Club World Cup-related news here and get ready for worldwide football to come to the U.S. this summer.
