FIFA President Gianni Infantino Proclaims Club World Cup as a ‘Turning Point’ for Football

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has declared that the upcoming Club World Cup, commencing on Saturday, heralds a significant “new era” for the sport, likening it to the inaugural World Cup held in 1930.

In a conversation with AFP, Infantino addressed critics of FIFA’s ticketing strategy, asserting that doubters questioning the necessity of the tournament will soon alter their perspectives.

This 32-team competition, featuring clubs from across all continents, will kick off with Inter Miami going head-to-head against Egyptian side Al Ahly at Hard Rock Stadium.

“This marks the beginning of a new chapter in football, a new era for club football, somewhat akin to the first World Cup in 1930,” Infantino expressed to AFP.

“Today, everyone reminisces about that very first World Cup, which is why this Club World Cup is also significant historically.“

The 1930 World Cup took place in Uruguay with only South American and European teams participating. Infantino noted that the Club World Cup provides an opportunity for clubs from outside football’s traditional heartlands to compete on a global platform.

“Our goal is inclusivity. We aspire to create opportunities for clubs worldwide,” he stated.

“This is about globalising football and making it truly universal. While we proclaim that football is the world’s number one sport, the elite competition is still restricted to a small number of clubs and countries,” he remarked.

The Swiss official, who previously served as general secretary for UEFA before leading FIFA since 2016, added that this club tournament also opens doors for players from more than 80 nations.

“Nations that might never have the chance to appear in a World Cup are now included in this tournament, and their fans and players can feel part of it,” he continued, recalling notable footballers who missed out on World Cup participation.

“A dear friend of mine, George Weah, a legendary player and Ballon d’Or winner, is the only African to have received this accolade, yet he never played in a World Cup. Participating in a Club World Cup would have made his club and country proud,” Infantino noted.

‘Something special’

Infantino downplayed worries regarding fixture congestion due to the tournament but acknowledged some scepticism from fans about its value, asserting that their opinions would quickly shift once play begins.

“I firmly believe that as soon as the action starts, the world will recognise the significance of what’s unfolding here. It’s truly something special,” he declared.

Concerns over low ticket sales for certain matches have sparked criticism surrounding FIFA’s ticketing policies, especially with the introduction of ‘dynamic pricing’ that allows ticket prices to fluctuate based on demand, a practice gaining traction in the United States.

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Infantino defended this ticketing strategy as well as the decision to provide significant discounts for students in Miami.

“While I consider myself an optimist, critics argue when ticket prices are elevated, yet they also criticise when tickets are offered at reduced rates,” he stated.

“They complain when we provide ticketing promotions for students. When I was a student, I would have jumped at the chance for FIFA to invite me to watch a World Cup match!“

“We’re not keen on seeing empty stadiums. I’m confident the matches will be well attended,” he asserted.

The FIFA president revealed that the tournament, which has secured a global broadcasting agreement with DAZN estimated at $1 billion, is already considered an economic victory, and he emphasized that all profits from commercial deals will be reinvested back into the sport.

When asked how he would measure the tournament’s success, Infantino mentioned he would evaluate it with his ‘heart’, though he expressed optimism.

“When we look at inclusivity, economic impact, and fan engagement, we’ll reassess this following the tournament. However, even now, I feel encouraged, particularly when I see ticket sales and broadcasting rights,” he noted, highlighting that matches are available for free on DAZN’s platforms.

“Can you name any leading competition today that allows you to watch football for free?” he inquired.

The Club World Cup has also found itself at the centre of intense discussions regarding immigration policy in the United States, as matches will unfold near Los Angeles, where violent confrontations between protesters and immigration officers have occurred.

“Ensuring security is always our utmost priority. In light of incidents, we are closely monitoring the situation in Los Angeles, staying in constant contact with local authorities to ensure fans can enjoy the games in a safe environment,” he concluded.