FIFA has ignited a firestorm in the MLS with its decision to grant Inter Miami a spot in the upcoming Club World Cup, which Mamelodi Sundowns are also set to participate in next year.
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President of world football's governing body Gianni Infantino announced on Sunday that the Miami outfit will join 31 other teams in the tournament, set to take place in the United States from 15 June to 13 July in 2025.
David Beckham's franchise has secured the host nation spot, despite FIFA's previous failure to clarify the selection criteria.
Miami's inclusion appears to be based on their achievement in winning the Supporters' Shield, awarded to the MLS side with the best regular-season record. With ex-Barcelona stars such as Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez, Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets on their roster, Miami finished the season with an impressive 74 points, setting a new MLS record.
While they now head into the MLS play-offs, which determine the MLS Cup champions, they have already secured a lucrative opportunity for next year. Not only have they qualified, but Miami will also host the opening match of the Club World Cup.
"Miami loves football, the world loves football, and the world loves Miami. So I have three things to tell you," Infantino declared on the pitch at Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale after Inter Miami's commanding 6-2 victory over New England Revolution, according to the Mirror.
"The first: many congratulations for winning the Supporters' Shield. And on top, with the record of points in Major League Soccer. Congratulations, you are the best team of the season in America. Second, based on this outstanding performance this year, you deserve to be, and you will be, for the FIFA Club World Cup 2025.
"And third, as the host team of the FIFA Club World Cup 2025, you will have the honour of opening the tournament by hosting the opening game here in Miami at the Hard Rock Stadium in front of 65 000 people and tens of millions at home."
Infantino was thrilled to share this news with Inter Miami fans after they were crowned MLS Eastern Conference champions.
However, the decision has not been well received by other MLS teams, who have accused FIFA of showing favouritism.
The Club World Cup has reportedly struggled to attract broadcasters, who have been reluctant to bid for the rights, and the addition of Messi is seen as a significant draw.
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Fans of other clubs are growing frustrated with what they perceive as double standards surrounding Beckham's glamorous franchise compared to their own teams.
By Kurt Buckerfield
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