FIFA is gearing up for next summer's new Club World Cup in the United States. FIFA president Gianni Infantino has assured global broadcasters that details of the tournament venue will be revealed by the end of September, according to a revelation by The Athletic's Adam Crafton. The decision has undoubtedly brought a sense of urgency to the preparations for the tournament, especially for those teams that have to negotiate with stadiums and cities across the United States in a short period of time.
Infantino has been in constant communication with broadcasters recently, trying to boost their interest and confidence in the new Club World Cup. Convincing broadcasters of the value of the tournament is crucial, given that FIFA is in dire need of huge television revenues to support the tournament. However, broadcasters remain cautious, mainly due to inconsistencies in the valuation of broadcasting costs, scheduling conflicts with other major sporting events, and the unknown nature of the new format and the composition of the teams.
Broadcasters are particularly concerned that the Club World Cup's schedule overlaps with major tournaments such as the Women's Europa League and the Wimbledon Tennis Championships, potentially influencing viewer choice. In addition, the failure of some of the biggest clubs known to soccer fans such as Manchester United, Arsenal, Liverpool, Barcelona and Milan to qualify, as well as the absence of Riyadh Victory, where Crowe plays, and the yet-to-be-known participation of Miami International, where Lionel Messi plays, have further deepened broadcasters' concerns.
The success of the new Club World Cup, a 32-team soccer extravaganza, will depend on the organization and execution of the tournament. Although key elements such as venues, training bases, sponsors and broadcasters have yet to be finalized, FIFA has made it clear that it will be announcing the venues within 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 to express the expectations and concerns of Europe's big clubs about the new Club World Cup. These clubs generally expect to reap rewards from this reformed tournament comparable to the Champions League, which will place a higher demand on the commercial value of the tournament.
In the face of these challenges and opportunities, FIFA must quickly resolve the issues plaguing the tournament to ensure the smooth running and success of the new Club World Cup. The timely announcement of the venue will undoubtedly bring a real sense of anticipation and comfort to broadcasters and fans around the world.
