Real Madrid has confirmed their intention to participate in FIFA’s expanded Club World Cup next summer, despite earlier statements from manager Carlo Ancelotti suggesting a potential boycott.
In an interview with Italian newspaper Il Giornale, Ancelotti mentioned that Real Madrid might refuse the invitation to the tournament, citing insufficient financial incentives. However, Ancelotti later clarified his remarks, indicating that they were misunderstood.
Ancelotti’s initial comments included a critique of the financial benefits, stating, “A single Madrid match is worth €20 million and FIFA wants to give us that amount for the entire cup. Negative. Like us, other clubs will refuse the invitation.”
Following this, Ancelotti took to social media to correct the interpretation of his interview, noting that he did not intend to reject the opportunity to compete.
He stated, “In my interview with Il Giornale, my words about the FIFA Club World Cup were not interpreted in the way I intended. Nothing could be further from my interest than to reject the possibility of playing in a tournament that I consider could be a great opportunity to continue fighting for big titles with Real Madrid.”
Real Madrid also issued an official statement to dispel any doubts, saying, “Real Madrid C.F. announces that at no time has its participation in the new Club World Cup to be organised by FIFA in the next 2024/2025 season been questioned.
“Therefore, our club will compete, as planned, in this official competition that we face with pride and with the utmost enthusiasm to make our millions of fans around the world dream again with a new title.”
The expanded 32-team Club World Cup is scheduled to take place in the United States from June 15 to July 13, 2025. Despite earlier uncertainties, Real Madrid is set to participate, aiming for another prestigious title.
