Brazil has officially signaled its intent to host the 2029 FIFA Club World Cup, following a high-level meeting between President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and FIFA President Gianni Infantino in Brasília this Monday.
A Strategic Summit in Brasília
The meeting, which also included CBF President Samir Xaud, Minister of Sport André Fufuca, and Brazil’s national team manager Carlo Ancelotti, marks a significant step in the country’s sports diplomacy. Although FIFA has not yet opened the formal bidding process, the Brazilian government and the CBF are working behind the scenes to position the country as a frontrunner to host the tournament’s second 32-team edition.
Brazil’s bid is bolstered by the upcoming 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup, which will serve as a major test for the country’s infrastructure much of which remains from the 2014 World Cup and the 2016 Olympics.
Global Competition: Spain, Morocco, and Qatar
The race for 2029 is expected to be fierce. Spain and Morocco—co-hosts of the 2030 World Cup are considered strong candidates, as they could use the tournament as a dress rehearsal for the main event. Qatar, looking to bring more elite football back to the Middle East, is also reportedly in the running. However, FIFA has clarified that the Club World Cup does not necessarily have to be tied to the subsequent World Cup hosts.
Building on 2025 Success
One of the driving forces behind Brazil’s push is the massive success of the 2025 edition in the United States. Brazilian clubs left a lasting impression on the global stage:
- Fluminense: Reached the semi-finals, narrowly losing to eventual champions Chelsea.
- Flamengo & Botafogo: Both made headlines by eliminating European giants Chelsea and PSG, respectively, before exiting in the Round of 16.
- Palmeiras: Reached the quarter-finals, further proving the competitive level of South American football.
With the fan culture in Brazil and the proven performance of its clubs, Infantino reportedly views Brazil as a “natural candidate” for FIFA’s expanded club competition.
Siara Costa is a football editor and writer covering both European men’s and women’s football, with a focus on league competitions, match coverage, and in-depth storytelling.
