The 32-team Club World Cup event scheduled for June-July 2025 has faced opposition from player unions due to concerns about increased physical and mental demands on players. FIFPRO Europe, the world governing body of football, has been legally challenged over the larger version of the Club World Cup taking place in the US next year. The competition has been expanded from seven to 32 teams, which has raised concerns from player associations about potential mental and physical breakdowns due to an already overcrowded calendar.
FIFPRO Europe President David Terrier emphasized the importance of respecting the well-being of players and denounced both the underlying problem of an overcrowded calendar and the impact of the expanded Club World Cup. The decision to stage the tournament means that players will experience three straight years of major competitions during their usual offseason. With the Euro 2024 Championship, Copa America, and the next World Cup all taking place within a short timeframe, player unions are calling for reforms that prioritize player health and wellness.
