Reports have revealed that Qatar is the most prominent candidate to host the Club World Cup in 2029, with indications of a tendency within FIFA to award the organisation of the tournament's second edition to Qatar, even as Mexico has entered the race to secure hosting rights.
Spanish newspaper AS reported that Qatar remains the frontrunner to host the tournament, while also noting that Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has opened the door to her country hosting the event, following the popular success Mexico achieved in hosting the 2026 World Cup on its soil for the third time.
The newspaper confirmed that FIFA is continuing its discussions on the future of the tournament, examining several proposals for its development, most notably increasing the number of participating clubs and the possibility of holding it during the winter, in the manner of the 2022 World Cup.
Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez is among the most prominent supporters of the tournament, having previously suggested that holding the competition in winter could remain an option on the table, arguing that it has less impact on club schedules compared to international break periods.
FIFA is also discussing with UEFA the possibility of expanding the tournament from 32 to 48 teams, along with adjustments to the allocation of berths and allowing more than two clubs from a single country to participate.
The proposals also include the possibility of holding the tournament every two years instead of every four, and although this scenario does not currently appear likely, it remains among the future options under consideration regarding the shape of the tournament.
The tournament enjoys strong support from European clubs due to the substantial financial returns it provides them. Chelsea, winners of the inaugural edition, received approximately 120 million euros following their title triumph, while clubs that reached the semi-finals received around 100 million euros each, and teams eliminated in the early rounds received approximately 22 million euros.