FIFA has officially revealed the 12 stadiums that will host the inaugural edition of the revamped Club World Cup 2025. This exciting tournament, set to take place in the United States next summer, will see 32 teams from around the world compete in a fresh format.
Mamelodi Sundowns Set to Shine: African and European Clubs Ready to Compete
Among the notable participants are 12 European clubs, including giants like Real Madrid, Chelsea, Manchester City, Bayern Munich, and Paris Saint-Germain. However, the tournament faced uncertainty recently due to discussions among high-profile players about potential strikes over the overwhelming number of matches and logistical challenges that could have jeopardized FIFA’s grand plans.
In addition to the 12 prominent European clubs, the tournament will feature four African clubs, showcasing the continent’s talent on a global stage. Alongside Mamelodi Sundowns, the African representatives will include Al Ahly SC (Egypt), Wydad Casablanca (Morocco), and Esperance de Tunis (Tunisia).
Club World Cup Confirmed Venues
In a significant development, FIFA announced the confirmed venues late on Saturday night, primarily concentrated on the East Coast of the USA. Here is the list of stadiums set to host the matches:
East Coast Venues:
- MetLife Stadium, New Jersey – Capacity: 82,500 (also hosting the final)
- Bank of America Stadium, Charlotte – Capacity: 74,860
- Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta – Capacity: 71,000
- Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia – Capacity: 69,879
- Hard Rock Stadium, Miami – Capacity: 64,760
- Camping World Stadium, Orlando – Capacity: 60,219
West Coast Venues:
- Rose Bowl, Los Angeles – Capacity: 89,702
- Lumen Field, Seattle – Capacity: 68,740
Smaller Venues:
- Inter&Co Stadium, Orlando – Capacity: 25,500
- Geodis Park, Nashville – Capacity: 30,109
- TQL Stadium, Cincinnati – Capacity: 26,000
- Audi Field, Washington, D.C. – Capacity: 20,000
A New Era for Club Football
FIFA President Gianni Infantino highlighted the significance of this event, stating, “Football is the most popular sport on the planet, and in 2025 a new era for club football will kick off when FIFA stages the greatest, most inclusive and merit-based global club competition right here in the United States.” He added that this tournament would mark a new chapter in football history with contributions from outstanding players representing the world’s top clubs.
The group stage draw is scheduled to take place in December, setting the stage for what promises to be a thrilling competition for Mamelodi Sundowns and their fellow participants.
Related article: Real Madrid Confirm 2025 FIFA Club World Cup Participation