Chelsea won the inaugural Club World Cup, and now others want to join in on the competition.
The team has faced challenges this season, with injuries notably affecting star player Cole Palmer.
Despite these troubles, Chelsea’s performance in the final against PSG remains a highlight for fans, fueling their desire for regular qualification.
FIFA plans 48-team Club World Cup; UEFA supports expansion
Following their Champions League victory in 2021, Chelsea participated in the Club World Cup held in the U.S. Due to limited qualification options, major clubs like Liverpool, Barcelona, and Bayern Munich did not compete.
According to The Guardian, FIFA is considering expanding the tournament ahead of the 2029 edition, and UEFA is not expected to oppose these changes.
Including more top European teams would address claims that Chelsea had an easy road to last year’s final.
Chelsea made it to the final by defeating Palmeiras in Estevao Willian’s last match and overcoming Thiago Silva’s Fluminense with a double from Joao Pedro. However, it remains uncertain if Chelsea will be part of the next tournament.
Chelsea’s participation in 2029 still unclear
Typically, winners of European competitions qualify automatically for the following year’s tournament unless they secure a spot through other means.
However, no official announcement has confirmed Chelsea’s participation in the next Club World Cup, despite their victory in its first year.
The tournament is still evolving, and it would be unusual for Chelsea to have to qualify again while holding the title from 2028.