FIFA announced that Inter Miami CF has secured a spot in the new FIFA Club World Cup™ after winning the 2024 MLS Supporters’ Shield, which recognizes them as the top team in the 2024 Major League Soccer (MLS) regular season. As the representative team from the host country, Inter Miami qualified thanks to their impressive and consistent performance over a 34-match season, clinching the shield with two matches remaining. They will also host the tournament and play in the first match of the FIFA Club World Cup 2025™ in Miami.
Under the leadership of FIFA World Cup™ champion Lionel Messi, Inter Miami achieved a record for the most points in a single MLS season, finishing 2024 with a total of 74 points from 22 wins, eight draws, and just four losses between February and October.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino made the announcement during a celebration for fans and the team following Inter Miami’s final regular season match against New England Revolution at Chase Stadium on Saturday.
“Miami is passionate about soccer, and Inter Miami is supported throughout Florida and beyond because of your exciting brand of football,” Infantino stated. “Congratulations on winning the 2024 Supporters’ Shield. You have demonstrated that you are consistently the best club in the United States.”
He continued, “As one of the best clubs in the world, I am proud to announce your participation in the new FIFA Club World Cup 2025 as the host club representing the United States.”
Inter Miami CF Managing Owner Jorge Mas expressed pride in the achievement, stating, “We promised our fans that we would build a team capable of competing at the highest level. Reaching this milestone by being among the world’s best teams in the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 is monumental for our fans and our community, as we continue to promote fútbol in North America.”
During the event before the passionate supporters, Infantino confirmed that the global club competition will begin in Miami. “We look forward to you hosting the opening match in Miami on Sunday, June 15, 2025. It promises to be an incredible celebration of global club football featuring the best 32 clubs in the world, offering a new opportunity for clubs, players, coaches, and fans alike to share their stories.”
With Inter Miami now confirmed as a participant, 31 of the 32 clubs for the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 have been finalized. The final team will be determined by the outcome of the 2024 CONMEBOL Libertadores final, scheduled for November 30, 2024, in Buenos Aires, meaning the complete lineup will be revealed before the draw in December 2024. Four notable South American clubs still have a chance to join the tournament in the U.S. next year.