A fresh controversy has hit football’s governing body as the FIFA Club World Cup struggles with an outstanding debt of £185 million. This financial shortfall puts the future of the tournament at risk.
President Gianni Infantino faces significant criticism following the recent World Cup. He was forced to walk back plans for private investment in FIFA tournaments after facing intense pushback from the football community. The situation is so severe that UEFA has publicly urged Infantino to step down.
The current trouble centers on the expanded Club World Cup, a project Infantino has pushed since 2016. The first version of this 32-team tournament took place in the United States in 2025. Broadcaster DAZN secured rights for £740 million, with a company linked to the Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund subsequently buying a stake in the network.
While participating teams received their earnings, a promised £185 million meant for solidarity payments to non-participating clubs remains unpaid. These funds were intended to support top-flight teams globally with a payment of £50,000 each, but distribution has stalled.
Further issues loom for the 2029 edition, as FIFA has yet to confirm a host or secure participation agreements with major European clubs. While countries including England, Brazil, Germany, Australia, New Zealand, and Mexico have shown interest, industry observers suggest Qatar or the United States remain the most probable hosts.
