FIFA is pressing ahead with plans for next summer's new Club World Cup in the United States, with The Athletic's Adam Crafton revealing that president Gianni Infantino has promised global broadcasters that venue details will be unveiled at the end of September. The teaser has increased the pace of preparations, especially for those teams negotiating with US stadiums and cities.
Infantino is in constant communication with broadcasters in an attempt to boost their confidence in the new Club World Cup. Given FIFA's need for television revenue, it is vital to ensure that broadcasters recognize the value of the tournament. However, broadcasters remain cautious due to varying estimates of broadcasting costs, scheduling conflicts with major sporting events, and uncertainty over the new format and teams.
Broadcasters are particularly concerned that the Club World Cup schedule overlaps with important events such as the Women's Euro and Wimbledon, which could distract viewers. In addition, the failure of well-known clubs such as Manchester United and Arsenal to compete, and the uncertainty surrounding the clubs of Crowe and Messi, have exacerbated broadcasters' concerns.
The success or failure of the new Club World Cup, a 32-team soccer event, will largely depend on organizational execution. While key information such as venues, training bases, sponsors and broadcasters are still unknown, FIFA has promised to announce the venues within a few weeks and provide more details before the December draw.
Notably, Nasser, the president of the European Club Association and president of Paris Saint-Germain, also spoke with Infantino, expressing the expectations of Europe's giants for the new Club World Cup. These clubs are hoping for a return comparable to the Champions League, which raises expectations for the commercial value of the tournament.
In the face of these challenges and opportunities, FIFA needs to quickly resolve the organizational difficulties to ensure the smooth running and success of the new Club World Cup. The timely release of venue information will undoubtedly bring substantial anticipation and comfort to broadcasters and fans around the world.
