Qatar in Talks With FIFA for Club World Cup 2029
Qatar has officially started discussions with FIFA about hosting the 2029 Club World Cup. According to The Guardian, Qatari representatives recently met with senior FIFA officials in the United States to explore this possibility. The proposal includes holding the tournament in December 2029, continuing the trend of winter scheduling that began with the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
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This winter timing, while aimed at avoiding extreme summer heat, has already caused friction. European football leagues strongly oppose the move due to concerns over disruptions to their domestic calendars. During the 2022 World Cup, the switch to winter resulted in a break of over a month in many top leagues worldwide.
Qatar’s Edge: Sustainability and Logistics
Qatar’s bid emphasizes sustainability and convenience. The Qatari organizing committee highlights their ability to deliver a carbon-neutral Club World Cup. Unlike the U.S. tournament, which requires teams and fans to travel between 11 different cities, Qatar offers a compact tournament format with minimal travel. Plus, the stadiums built for the 2022 World Cup are already fully operational, reducing costs and logistical challenges.
This setup promises a smoother experience for teams and supporters, leveraging proven infrastructure and sustainable practices.
Weather Challenges Cast Doubts on U.S. Hosting
The upcoming 2025 Club World Cup in the U.S. has already faced weather-related setbacks. Several matches have been interrupted by thunderstorms, including a notable two-hour suspension of the Chelsea vs. Benfica game near Charlotte’s Bank of America Stadium. This was the sixth match affected by lightning and bad weather, sparking complaints from players and coaches alike.
In response, FIFPro, the global players’ union, has announced plans to address player welfare concerns related to these weather interruptions at an upcoming press conference.
Is Winter Becoming the New Norm for Big Tournaments?
The shift to winter tournaments is part of a broader debate sparked by climate realities. Holding major events during the scorching summer months has become increasingly challenging. The 2034 FIFA World Cup in Saudi Arabia is also expected to be played in winter, reinforcing this growing trend.
Qatar’s proposal fits well within this new landscape, balancing climate comfort, sustainability, and logistical efficiency. Now, the decision rests with FIFA, whether to prioritize these factors or yield to pressure from European leagues intent on protecting their schedules.