FIFA is going full steam ahead with preparations for the new Club World Cup tournament, which kicks off in the United States next summer. According to The Athletic's Adam Crafton, FIFA president Gianni Infantino has given assurances to global broadcasters that details of the tournament venue will be unveiled by the end of September. The decision has undoubtedly heightened tensions in the preparations, especially for teams that will have to reach agreements with stadiums and cities across the U.S. in a short period of time.
Infantino has been in frequent conversations with broadcasters recently in an effort to boost their interest and confidence in the new Club World Cup. Given FIFA's desire to fund the tournament's operations through television revenues, it is vital that broadcasters recognize the value of the tournament. However, broadcasters remain cautious for now, mainly due to differences in broadcasting cost estimates, scheduling conflicts with other major sporting events, and doubts about the new format and team composition.
Broadcasters are particularly concerned that the Club World Cup schedule clashes with top tournaments such as the Women's Europa League and the Wimbledon Tennis Championships, which could affect viewership. The broadcasters' concerns are compounded by the failure of high-profile clubs like Manchester United, Arsenal, Liverpool, Barcelona and Milan to qualify, as well as the uncertainty surrounding the participation of Riyadh Victory, where Cairo plays, and Miami International, where Lionel Messi is playing.
The success or failure of the new Club World Cup, a 32-team soccer extravaganza, will depend on the quality of organization and execution. Although key elements such as venues, training bases, sponsors and broadcasters have yet to be fully finalized, FIFA has promised to announce the venues in a few weeks and plans to disclose further information before the December draw.
Notably, Paris Saint-Germain president Nasser, as president of the European Club Association, also spoke with Infantino, expressing the expectations of Europe's big clubs for the new Club World Cup. These clubs are generally looking to generate revenues comparable to those of the Champions League from the reformed tournament, which will further enhance the commercial value of the tournament.
With a series of challenges and opportunities facing FIFA, it is imperative that the various issues that have plagued the organization of the tournament are quickly resolved to ensure the smooth running and success of the new Club World Cup. The timely announcement of the venue will undoubtedly bring anticipation and comfort to broadcasters and fans around the world.
