As the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup kicks off tomorrow at Miami’s 65,000-seat Hard Rock Stadium, the tournament is already facing an embarrassing attendance crisis for its opening match between Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami and Egypt’s Al Ahly.
Despite Messi’s global stardom and the prestige of the revamped tournament, fan interest in the opener has been underwhelming. In stark contrast, two historic clubs—Real Madrid and Boca Juniors—have sold out all three of their group stage matches, making them the only teams to do so in the expanded 32-team format.
FIFA is reportedly concerned about the prospect of thousands of empty seats being seen around the world during the tournament’s curtain-raiser. The governing body is now offering tickets for as low as $20, with promotions including up to four free tickets, and is actively targeting university students to fill the stands.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has tried to downplay the issue, stating that fans from over 130 countries have bought tickets and emphasizing that fan safety remains a top priority. However, the broader ticketing picture is far from ideal.
While blockbuster fixtures like Bayern Munich vs. Boca Juniors and Real Madrid vs. Al Hilal have sold out quickly, many other matches are facing sluggish demand. The tournament’s American debut now heavily depends on local outreach and steep discounts to avoid international embarrassment—especially as the U.S. prepares to co-host the 2026 World Cup.
The contrast is glaring: while some clubs struggle to fill seats, Real Madrid and Boca Juniors have demonstrated their unmatched global appeal, with packed stadiums guaranteed for all their group matches.
