The Club World Cup expanded to 32 teams from all continents. Learn the new format, how clubs qualify and who plays.
The Club World Cup is FIFA's tournament bringing together continental champions, now expanded to a new 32-club format from around the world, making it closer in shape to the World Cup for nations.
Old format vs new
Previously the tournament was small, gathering seven clubs each year. The expanded edition is held every four years with 32 clubs drawn into groups, giving it far greater scale and competitiveness.
How do clubs qualify?
Clubs qualify through their performance in continental competitions over set years (such as winning the European, Asian or South American Champions League), plus a ranking coefficient ensuring fair representation for each continent.
The in-tournament format
The 32 clubs are split into groups, and the best advance to the knockouts through to the final — just like the World Cup format. That makes every group match matter.
Why it matters to Arab fans
Because Asian clubs, including Saudi Pro League representatives, are now part of this global event. Follow the Arab clubs' journey and tournament news on Shahid Live.
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