The United States is hosting the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, welcoming top soccer teams from around the globe. The tournament, taking place from June 14 to July 13, features matches involving powerhouse teams such as Chelsea and Real Madrid. This event precedes the U.S.'s role as a co-host for the FIFA Men’s World Cup in 2026.
These two major soccer tournaments are expected to attract billions of dollars in investment due to the growing popularity of soccer in the United States. A report from For Soccer indicates that the number of new U.S. soccer fans has increased by 57% over a recent five-year period. Additionally, approximately 14 million Americans participate in outdoor recreational soccer.
FIFA's Men's World Cup held in the U.S. in 1994 and Women's World Cup in 1999 significantly boosted interest in soccer across America. From 1990 to 2017, there was a sevenfold increase in Americans naming soccer as their favorite sport, making it now the fourth most popular sport after football, basketball, and baseball.
This year's Club World Cup includes teams from around the world that are favorites among U.S. fans. Teams like Chelsea and Manchester City from the UK, Real Madrid from Spain, and Juventus from Italy will compete. Juventus' roster includes American players Weston McKennie and Tim Weah.
Three U.S.-based teams—LAFC (Los Angeles Football Club), Seattle Sounders, and Inter Miami led by Lionel Messi—are also participating in the tournament. With a total of 63 matches across 11 cities, an estimated 3.7 million fans are expected to attend.
A joint study by FIFA and the World Trade Organization projects that this tournament could support up to 105,000 jobs in the U.S., contributing $17.1 billion to its economic impact.
The upcoming FIFA Men’s World Cup in 2026 is anticipated to generate even more economic benefits with projections of up to $30.5 billion and creating approximately 185,000 jobs across America. The tournament is also expected to set new records for global television viewership and attendance figures previously set during the games held in 1994.
President Trump remarked on May 6 about these events: “This will be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to showcase the beauty and greatness of America,” adding that they look forward to welcoming international soccer fans.