FIFA Club World Cup 2025: Inter Miami to Replace LA Galaxy Despite Not Being MLS Champions

In a shocking move, FIFA has announced that Inter Miami will participate in the revamped 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, leaving out reigning MLS Cup winners LA Galaxy. The decision was made to capitalize on Lionel Messi's global appeal and boost the tournament's visibility.

The 32-team tournament is set to take place from June 14 to July 13 in the United States, featuring top clubs from six confederations: AFC, CAF, CONCACAF, CONMEBOL, OFC, and UEFA. Africa has received four spots, while Asia and North America each have four as well.

The major surprise is Inter Miami's inclusion despite not being the MLS champions, a title held by LA Galaxy who won in November. FIFA officials instead opted for inter Miami after their successful 2024 season where they broke all-time MLS records with 74 points.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino praised Inter Miami, saying, "You have shown that in the United States, you are consistently the best club on the field of play... You are deserved participants in the new FIFA Club World Cup 2025."

A major reason behind this decision is Messis influence. With Messi set to return from his Argentine league stint at Paris Saint-Germain, Inter Miami is poised to host a high-profile match to kick-start the tournament against Al Ahly FC from Egypt on June 14th.

The participation of LA Galaxy, and particularly their highly touted signing Lionel Messi, is believed to bring significant viewership. This move by FIFA aims to capitalise on global football's most prominent figure in order to attract massive viewers for international events around it, that which is proven through last year’s event when mEssi made debut on the grand stage again , drawing a huge global audience."