FIFA to discuss staging 48-team Club World Cup if upcoming tournament successful

Big clubs are concerned they are missing out financially. Barcelona, Arsenal, Liverpool, Manchester United and Milan are among the big clubs with large fanbases who have not qualified.

Fifa will hold a consultation about expanding the Club World Cup to 48 teams in 2029 if this summer’s edition is successful. Pic: AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein.

Fifa will hold a consultation about expanding the Club World Cup to 48 teams in 2029 if this summer’s edition is successful, after lobbying from clubs who failed to qualify for the new $1bn (£740m) tournament.

The 32-team competition kicks off in the US on Saturday and the winners will receive up to $125.8m (£93.2m) in participation and prize money for playing seven matches.