FIFA President Gianni Infantino believes the new-look Club World Cup, which kicks off this Saturday, marks the beginning of a “historic” chapter in football, likening it to the first-ever FIFA World Cup held in 1930.
In an interview with AFP, Infantino said the expanded 32-team tournament—featuring clubs from every continent—ushers in a “new era of club football.” He drew a parallel with Uruguay 1930, the inaugural World Cup, which has since become a legendary milestone in the sport’s history. “Everyone today speaks about the very first World Cup. That’s why this one is also historic,” he emphasized.
The tournament opens with a high-profile clash between Inter Miami and Egyptian giants Al Ahly at Hard Rock Stadium. Infantino defended the competition against critics who have questioned its necessity or ticketing policies. He asserted that doubts would quickly vanish once the tournament gets underway.
Infantino emphasized that the new Club World Cup aims to be more inclusive, providing clubs and players from outside traditional football powerhouses a chance to shine on a global stage. He noted that while football is hailed as the world’s most popular sport, the elite level remains concentrated among a small group of clubs and countries. The goal, he said, is to “truly globalise football.”
He also highlighted that the tournament would feature players from over 80 countries—many of which have never qualified for a World Cup. Infantino added that this offers not just opportunities for those players, but also pride and recognition for their fans and home nations. He pointed out that several greats of the past never had the chance to play in a World Cup, suggesting that this tournament fills that void for today’s generation.
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