The road to the 2029 FIFA Club World Cup is already heating up, with four elite clubs securing their spots in the 32-team tournament. As the competition undergoes a significant revamp, the qualification process has become more competitive and structured than ever before.

European Dominance: How Clubs from Europe Qualify

Twelve European clubs will grace the 2029 Club World Cup. The winners of the UEFA Champions League in the 2025-26, 2026-27, and 2027-28 seasons will join Paris St-Germain, who have already qualified as the 2024-25 champions. Additionally, the next eight best-ranked teams from the Champions League over the next four years will secure their spots. Notably, each European nation is limited to two participating clubs, ensuring a diverse representation.

South America's Path to the Tournament

In South America, the winners of the Copa Libertadores in 2025, 2026, 2027, and 2028 will automatically qualify. The two best-ranked non-winners from these years will also join the fray. This ensures that only the continent's top performers make it to the global stage.

Asia, Africa, and North America: Continental Powerhouses

Asia (AFC), Africa (CAF), and North and Central America and the Caribbean (CONCACAF) each have three additional spots available. These will be filled by the winners of their respective continental competitions in 2026, 2027, and 2028. This structure guarantees that the best teams from these regions get their chance to compete on the world stage.

Oceania's Unique Challenge

Oceania (OFC) has a single spot, which will be awarded to the best-performing winner of the OFC Professional League over the next four years. This newly established league, set to begin in January 2026, features eight teams and promises to elevate the level of competition in the region.

The Host Nation's Wildcard

The final spot in the tournament is reserved for a club from the host nation. The criteria for this selection remain unspecified, but it could be based on performance or by invitation, adding an element of intrigue to the qualification process.

Conclusion

The 2029 FIFA Club World Cup promises to be a thrilling spectacle, with teams from across the globe vying for glory. The revamped qualification process ensures that only the best of the best will compete, making it a true test of footballing excellence.