Real Madrid’s new obsession

Despite the new expanded FIFA Club World Cup coming under plenty of criticism from countless corners with many deeming that it’s an unnecessary addition to an already packed season, Real Madrid plan to take the tournament very seriously.

The tournament is not only seen as being important from a financial perspective but the Santiago Bernabeu hierarchy deem that winning this first edition is seen as a question of ‘prestige’ as was winning the first European Cup in 1956.

32 teams will compete in the tournament which has been heavily backed by FIFA chief Gianni Infantino. Real Madrid will be joined by the likes of Man City, PSG, River Plate, Flamengo, Chelsea and Leo Messi’s Inter Miami with all eyes set of lifting the unique trophy at Metlife Stadium in New Jersey on July 13.

Then there’s the attractive financial lure of the tournament after FIFA outlined the prize money at stake.

Speaking at an event this week, FIFA president Gianni Infantino said: “The distribution model of the FIFA Club World Cup reflects the pinnacle of club football and represents the biggest-ever prize money for a football tournament comprising a seven-match group stage and playoff format with a potential payout of $125 million foreseen for the winners.”

The sporting performance bonuses are: Group stage - $2 million per win, $1 million per draw; Round of 16 - $7.5 million; Quarterfinals - $13.125 million; Semifinals - $21 million; Runners-up - $30 million; Winner - $40 million.

Club Leon questionmark

The tournament suffered a minor logistical setback last week when FIFA announced, less than three months before the opening game that one of the Mexican clubs, James Rodríguez’s Club León will be excluded due to the team and Pachuca CF both being owned by the Pahchua Group and hence contravene FIFA’s MCO (multi club ownership) rules.

At the time of writing no substitute team from the CONCACAF region has been confirmed by FIFA with everyone from LA Galaxy, Club America through to Costa Rican side LD Alajuelense being cited as possible replacements.

The situation has no direct impact on Los Blancos with Leon earmarked to start in Group D, while Ancelotti’s men are in Group H) and neither side could cross paths in the round of 16 clash. Madrid will face Al Hilal of Saudi Arabia (18 June), Pachuca of Mexico (22 June) and Salzburg of Austria (27 June) in the first round.

Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all. Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.