MLS teams can avoid the draws of Real Madrid, Bayern Munich or Man City in the group stage of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup.

Inter Miami is one of two MLS representatives in the tournament. Photo: Reuters.

Times reported that the International Football Federation (FIFA) is likely to place Inter Miami in the A1 seed group at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup. According to FIFA’s explanation, this is an advantage for the host representative, similar to what happened in previous World Cups. Inter Miami is also likely to play the opening match of the tournament on June 15, 2025.

Inter Miami is not the only MLS representative in the tournament, with Seattle Sounders FC also participating. The Times commented that “it would not be surprising if both MLS representatives were in the A1 seed pot”.

On October 20, FIFA caused controversy when it announced that Inter Miami had a ticket to the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup. David Beckham’s team only won the Supporters’ Shield (the overall champion of the rankings, including both the East and West).

However, Inter Miami disappointed when they were eliminated in the MLS playoff round against Atlanta United, missing the chance to participate in the 2024 season’s Grand Final. According to British media, MLS teams accused FIFA of not setting clear criteria, claiming that they were only ensuring that Lionel Messi would appear in the tournament next year.

MLS denied responsibility and said that “FIFA has sole authority to decide participation”.

The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup will be the first in history to feature 32 teams. Previously, the tournament featured only seven teams, all champions from around the world. The tournament will take place from June 15, 2025 to July 13, 2025, at multiple venues across the United States.

In the group stage, the 32 participating teams are divided into 8 groups of 4 teams each. The top 2 teams in each group will advance to the knockout round. The format of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup is somewhat similar to the previous World Cup.