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FIFA has confirmed that Inter Miami, led by Lionel Messi, will participate in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup in the United States after securing the MLS Supporters' Shield. The prestigious tournament will feature 32 of the world’s top clubs and will take place from June 15 to July 13. Inter Miami will also have the honor of hosting the opening match of the tournament.
Traditionally, the U.S. host club for the Club World Cup is determined by the MLS Cup winner, but this year, FIFA chose to reward consistency throughout the entire regular season by granting the spot to the winner of the MLS Supporters' Shield. Inter Miami earned this berth in dominant fashion, setting a new league record with 74 points, surpassing the previous high of 73 points set by the New England Revolution in 2021. The record was sealed with a resounding 6-2 victory over New England on Saturday.
In an official statement, FIFA President Gianni Infantino praised Inter Miami's achievement, emphasizing their consistency over the season.
"Congratulations on your wonderful 2024 Supporters' Shield success. You have shown that in the United States, you are consistently the best club on the field of play," Infantino said. "Therefore, I am proud to announce that as one of the best clubs in the world, you are deserved participants in the new FIFA Club World Cup 2025 as the host club representing the United States."
Messi's stint with Miami
Lionel Messi joined Inter Miami midway through the 2023 MLS season and made an immediate impact, leading the team to a Leagues Cup title. Although his late arrival in the season prevented the team from making the playoffs, Messi's first full year in 2024 saw him battle injuries and international commitments yet still manage to score 20 goals in just 19 league appearances. One of his most memorable moments came with a stunning hat trick in just 11 minutes during a crucial match against New England.
Miami’s victory in the Supporters’ Shield secured them the top seed for the MLS playoffs with two games still to spare.
Inter Miami’s inclusion in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup will make it only the second MLS team to ever compete in the prestigious tournament. The Seattle Sounders previously earned a spot in 2022 after winning the CONCACAF Champions League. The final spot in the 2025 tournament will be awarded to the winner of the Copa Libertadores final, which will be held on November 30 in Buenos Aires.
