FIFA Confirms Registration Dates For 2025 Club World Cup
The Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) has confirmed the registration dates for the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup in the United States.
During the FIFA Council meeting in Zurich on 3 October, key decisions were made on various topics, including FIFA Member Associations and upcoming men’s and women’s competitions.
It was announced that the opening registration window for 32 clubs will start from 1-10 June 2025.
“The FIFA Council unanimously approved the Regulations for the FIFA Club World Cup 2025™, which aim to address technicalities and equalize inconsistencies arising from differences in registration periods and domestic-season timings between participating clubs,” FIFA stated.
“Under the regulations, the FIFA Member Associations of the participating clubs will have the option of opening an exceptional registration window from June 1 to 10, 2025, before the start of the competition. The decision to open an additional window remains at the discretion of each FIFA Member Association concerned.”
FIFA also addressed the issue of players whose contracts expire at the end of the season. “Following the deadline for submitting squad lists, as some players’ contracts will expire mid-competition, participating clubs may replace players during a restricted in-competition period from June 27 to July 3, 2025.”
This raises questions about whether Mamelodi Sundowns will extend the contract of legendary goalkeeper Denis Onyango, whose contract expires at the end of June.
“The objective is to encourage clubs and players whose contracts are expiring to find an appropriate solution to facilitate the players’ participation,” FIFA said.
FIFA President Infantino expressed excitement about the new era for club football, stating, “The FIFA Club World Cup 2025 will kick off a new era for club football across the world, with the top teams competing to be crowned the official FIFA club world champions. These regulations will ensure that the best possible conditions are in place for all 32 participating clubs and the best players in the world to shine at the highest level.”
However, the new FIFA Club World Cup has faced criticism from UEFA member associations, who believe that players are being overburdened with too many games. Manchester City midfielder Rodri threatened that players might consider going on strike, while teammate Manuel Akanji expressed concerns about retiring early due to the demanding schedule.
With the European Championship this year and the Club World Cup next year as well the Africa Cup of Nations in 2025/2026, top players who also qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup will have limited rest over three seasons.
