The FIFA Club World Cup is expanding next year, with the championship set to take place on July 13 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. This venue was also the site of the 2026 World Cup final, adding to its prestige as a major soccer destination.
A total of twelve stadiums will be utilized for the 32-team tournament, including five of the eleven U.S. venues selected for the 2026 World Cup. These include iconic locations such as the Rose Bowl in Pasadena and Camping World Stadium in Orlando, both of which hosted matches during the 1994 World Cup.
The announcement sparked excitement among fans and drew attention to the event, which was revealed by FIFA President Gianni Infantino at the Global Citizen Festival in New York’s Central Park. However, not everyone was pleased with the scheduling, as FIFPRO criticized FIFA for potentially affecting player health and well-being.
Despite the criticism, the tournament sites have been confirmed, with a mix of NFL stadiums and MLS venues set to host matches. Notable locations include Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, and Lumen Field in Seattle.
The roster of qualified teams for the Club World Cup is equally impressive, featuring top clubs from Europe, South America, North America, Africa, Asia, and Oceania. With teams like Manchester City, Real Madrid, and Boca Juniors in the mix, fans can expect fierce competition and thrilling matches.
As excitement builds for next year’s tournament, soccer enthusiasts around the world are eagerly awaiting further updates and broadcast information. Stay tuned for more updates on this highly anticipated event!
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Source: [AP Soccer](https://apnews.com/hub/soccer)
