Real Madrid Pushes for Biennial Club World Cup; FIFA Agrees, UEFA Hesitant

The inaugural edition of the expanded FIFA Club World Cup, featuring 32 teams, recently took place in the United States. While the tournament initially faced criticism, Real Madrid has now voiced support, advocating for the competition to be held every two years instead of every four. The Spanish club has gained backing from Barcelona, Manchester United, Liverpool, and Napoli.

According to reports, FIFA has agreed in principle to the biennial proposal, but UEFA has yet to endorse it.

Although the first 32-team edition generated significant commercial revenue, it was not particularly successful for Real Madrid on the pitch. Nevertheless, the new FIFA format aligns with club president Florentino Pérez’s vision, reminiscent of his proposed European Super League. This alignment prompted Real Madrid to submit the new proposal.

• Tournament: FIFA Club World Cup
• Teams: 32 (potentially expanding to 48)
• Location of first edition: United States
• Outcome: Commercially successful, mixed sporting results for Real Madrid

The Guardian reports that the proposal would:

• Hold the tournament every two years instead of four.
• Increase participating teams from 32 to 48.
• Potentially start the new format in 2029.

However, there will be no expansion in 2027, as the global football calendar has already been finalised for that year.

Despite FIFA’s willingness, several challenges remain:

FIFA faces the difficult task of gaining approval from players’ unions, as workload management is a sensitive issue.

Countries expressing interest in hosting a 48-team Club World Cup in 2029 include:

• Qatar
• Spain
• Morocco

The long-term implementation of a biennial tournament depends heavily on UEFA’s approval. Should UEFA agree, other clubs and confederations are expected to follow suit.

Real Madrid’s push reflects a growing interest among elite clubs to increase club-level competitions, but balancing players’ workload and securing UEFA’s support remain the primary hurdles.