The FIFA Club World Cup has undergone a dramatic transformation since its expansion to 32 teams in 2025, and early indications suggest that the 2033 edition could see even more significant changes.
The Evolution of the Tournament
When FIFA announced the expansion from 7 to 32 teams in 2019, it marked a watershed moment for club football. The inaugural expanded tournament in the United States set new standards for club competition, with prize money reaching €100 million for the winner.
What's Being Discussed for 2033
Several key developments are on the table for the 2033 edition:
1. Potential 48-Team Expansion
FIFA president Gianni Infantino has hinted at discussions about expanding to 48 teams, mirroring the format change implemented for the FIFA World Cup. This would significantly increase representation from: - AFC (Asia): Potentially 6-8 spots instead of 4 - CAF (Africa): Potentially 6 spots instead of 4 - CONCACAF (North America): Potentially 5-6 spots instead of 4
2. Host Nation Considerations
While no official announcement has been made, several regions are positioning themselves: - Middle East: Building on Qatar's successful World Cup hosting - Asia: China and Japan expressing interest - Oceania: Australia could co-host with Asian nations
3. Prize Money Projections
Based on current growth trends, the 2033 winner could receive upwards of €150-200 million, making it the richest club competition in football history.
Impact on Qualification
The expanded format would require changes to qualification pathways. Current projections suggest: - Extended qualification periods spanning 4+ years - More emphasis on coefficient rankings - Possible wild card spots for historic clubs
European Clubs' Perspective
Major European clubs have expressed mixed feelings about the expansion. While the financial incentives are attractive, concerns remain about: - Player fatigue and fixture congestion - Overlap with domestic leagues - Impact on Champions League prestige
Timeline for Decisions
FIFA is expected to make formal announcements regarding the 2033 format by 2028, allowing sufficient time for: - Qualification framework establishment - Broadcasting rights negotiations - Infrastructure preparation by host nations
Conclusion
The FIFA Club World Cup continues to evolve as football's premier club competition on the global stage. Whether the 2033 edition features 32 or 48 teams, one thing is certain: it will represent the pinnacle of club football achievement.
Stay tuned to WorldCup2033.com for the latest updates on all 2033 sporting events.