FIFA is busy preparing for a huge soccer extravaganza - next summer's Club World Cup in the United States. President Gianni Infantino has assured global broadcasters that venue information will be unveiled at the end of September, according to a revelation by The Athletic's Adam Crafton, which has undoubtedly added to the pressure on the preparatory teams, especially those dealing with US venues and cities.
Infantino has been in frequent communication with broadcasters in an attempt to boost their confidence in the new Club World Cup. Convincing broadcasters of the value of the tournament is crucial, given that FIFA expects to support the tournament through television revenues. But broadcasters remain wary of costs, scheduling conflicts and uncertainty over the new format and teams.
Broadcasters are particularly concerned that the Club World Cup's schedule overlaps with events such as the Women's Europa League and Wimbledon, which could distract viewers. Broadcasters' concerns are compounded by the fact that high-profile giants such as Manchester United, Arsenal, Liverpool, Barcelona and Milan have failed to qualify, while the status of Cairo's Riyadh triumphs and Lionel Messi's Miami internationals is uncertain.
The success or failure of the new Club World Cup, a soccer event in which the top 32 will compete for supremacy, will depend on organization and execution. While key elements such as venues, training bases, sponsors and broadcasters are yet to be clarified, FIFA has promised to announce the venues within a few weeks and more information before the draw in December.
It is worth noting that Nasser, the president of the European Club Association and president of Paris Saint-Germain, also expressed to Infantino the expectations of Europe's big clubs for the new Club World Cup. These clubs are hoping to receive comparable returns to the Champions League from the reformed tournament, which will boost the commercial value of the event.
In the face of challenges and opportunities, FIFA needs to quickly resolve the organizational issues of the tournament to ensure a smooth and successful Club World Cup. The timely announcement of the venue will undoubtedly bring anticipation and comfort to broadcasters and fans around the world.
