The highly anticipated FIFA Club World Cup is set to kick off in Miami, but amidst the excitement, concerns over the tournament’s legitimacy and Fifa’s authoritarian leadership have cast a shadow on the event. Gianni Infantino, Fifa’s president, has been criticized for his handling of the tournament, with many questioning his motives and the governing body’s influence over international football.
The tournament promises to feature some of the biggest names in football, including Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami and Real Madrid, but the real question is whether the event can live up to its promise. With 63 games spread across 11 host cities, the competition seems overcrowded, and the lack of transparency surrounding Fifa’s decision-making process has fueled skepticism.
As the tournament begins, thousands of protesters will take to the streets in Miami and other US cities under the banner No Kings, rejecting Trump’s perceived authoritarianism. The contrast between the pomp and circumstance of the football event and the protests outside could serve as a reminder that sport can be a powerful platform for social commentary and activism.
The FIFA Club World Cup is more than just a sporting event – it’s a symbol of Fifa’s influence over international football, and the leadership of Gianni Infantino at its helm. As the tournament unfolds, it will be interesting to see whether Fifa can overcome its controversies and deliver a high-quality competition that does justice to the sport it claims to represent.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/football/2025/jun/13/borrowed-culture-plasticine-burger-club-world-cup-almost-football