FIFA is nervously deploying the new Club World Cup in the United States next summer, and according to The Athletic's Adam Crafton, President Gianni Infantino has assured broadcasters around the globe that details of the venues will be unveiled by the end of September. This has certainly added tension to the preparations, especially for teams who will have to negotiate with venues and cities across the US.
Infantino has been in frequent communication with broadcasters recently, trying to boost their confidence and interest in the new Club World Cup. Considering that FIFA needs a lot of TV revenue to sustain the tournament, convincing broadcasters of the tournament's value is crucial. But broadcasters are wary of this, mainly because of disagreements over broadcasting costs, the timing of the tournament conflicting with other major sporting events, and uncertainty over the new format and teams.
Broadcasters are particularly concerned that the Club World Cup's schedule overlaps with important tournaments such as the Women's Europa League and the Wimbledon Tennis Championships, which could affect viewer ratings. The absence of well-known clubs such as Manchester United, Arsenal, Liverpool, Barcelona and Milan, and the undecided participation of Cairo's Riyadh Victory and Lionel Messi's Miami International have heightened broadcasters' misgivings.
The success of the new Club World Cup, a 32-team soccer event, depends on organization and execution. While key elements such as venues, training bases, sponsors and broadcasters have yet to be finalized, FIFA has promised to announce the venues within a few weeks and plans to release more information before the draw in December.
It is worth noting that Paris Saint-Germain president Nasser, as president of the European Club Association, also spoke to Infantino to express 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 increase the commercial value demanded by the tournament.
In this period of challenges and opportunities, FIFA must quickly address the organization of the tournament to ensure the smooth running and success of the new Club World Cup. The timely announcement of the venue will bring anticipation and comfort to broadcasters and fans worldwide.
