A globally-anticipated soccer extravaganza is coming to the United States next summer - the new FIFA Club World Cup. According to The Athletic's Adam Crafton, FIFA president Gianni Infantino has assured global broadcasters that venue information will be unveiled by the end of September, which has certainly pressed the accelerator button on the tournament's intense preparations.
Infantino is actively talking to broadcasters in a bid to galvanize their enthusiasm for the new Club World Cup. Winning the trust of broadcasters is crucial, given that the tournament needs to be backed by huge television revenues. But broadcasters still have reservations about the high broadcasting costs, the timing of the tournament conflicting with other major sporting events, and the uncertainty of the new format and teams.
Adding to the broadcasters' concerns is the fact that the Club World Cup's schedule overlaps with major tournaments such as the Women's Europa League and the Wimbledon Tennis Championships, which could be a distraction for viewers. The fact that major clubs such as Manchester United and Arsenal, as well as Riyadh Victory, where Cairo plays, and Miami International, where Lionel Messi plays, are still in the dark about whether or not they will be able to participate has added to the broadcasters' concerns.
The success of the new Club World Cup, a soccer extravaganza bringing together the top 32 teams, will depend on the finer points of organization and execution. While key elements such as venues, training bases, sponsors and broadcasters have yet to be finalized, FIFA has promised to release information on the venues in a few weeks and provide more details before the December draw.
It is interesting to note 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 eager to reap the rewards of a reformed tournament comparable to the Champions League, which would increase the tournament's commercial value.
At a time of challenges and opportunities, FIFA needs to quickly address the challenges in the organization of the tournament to ensure the smooth running and success of the new Club World Cup. The timely release of venue information will bring tangible expectations and comfort to broadcasters and fans around the world.
