Spain’s top soccer league has some issues with the sport’s governing body.
La Liga is considering taking legal action against FIFA following a plan to expand the 2025 Club World Cup to 32 teams, change its frequency, and alter the 2026 Men’s World Cup format.
“These decisions made unilaterally and without notice regarding the calendar with new international tournaments irreversibly damage the entire football ecosystem,” said La Liga.
- The Club World Cup currently features seven teams.
- An expanded 2025 Club World Cup could bring FIFA’s revenue to more than $11 billion.
- FIFA reported $7.5 billion in revenue last month for the 2019-22 cycle.
- It also has plans to launch friendly tournaments called the FIFA World Series.
La Liga believes FIFA’s changes to its international competitions don’t consider the health and well-being of players. The 20-team league also noted that FIFA’s decision to hold the 2023 Club World Cup in February in Morocco doesn’t give teams and clubs adequate time to prepare.
Expansion Plans
Earlier this month, La Liga secured a deal with UFC to broaden its reach in North America, sources told Front Office Sports. As part of the pact, La Liga and UFC athletes will raise awareness of their partner league through podcasts and shows on social media platforms.
The two entities also plan to co-host at least three annual events in Spain.
