Qatar has expressed its strong interest in hosting the 2029 FIFA Club World Cup, holding high-level discussions with FIFA officials during the ongoing tournament in the USA.

Sources indicate that Qatari representatives have already held discussions with FIFA officials, promising a carbon-neutral event, which contrasts starkly with the competition being held in the USA now, which requires extensive cross-country travel for teams and fans.

The Gulf nation, which successfully hosted the 2022 FIFA World Cup, is proposing to utilize its nine existing stadiums — six of which are regularly used for Qatar Stars League matches — to minimize staging costs and travel. The infrastructure Qatar already has in place makes them a cost-effective and environmentally responsible host.

However, Qatar’s extreme summer heat remains a significant hurdle. As with the 2022 FIFA World Cup, the 2029 Club World Cup in Qatar would likely have to be moved to winter. While December 2029 has been discussed as the most probable window, it is expected to face strong opposition from European Leagues due to a date clash with their domestic seasons.

Qatar is not alone in its ambitions. Spain and Morocco have both declared their intent to host the tournament, ahead of their joint organization of the 2030 FIFA World Cup with Portugal, which will also feature matches in Uruguay, Argentina, and Paraguay.

Brazil has also formally entered the race, following a meeting between its football federation president and FIFA’s Gianni Infantino in Miami.

The financial stakes are high, with FIFA offering a $1bn prize fund for the current edition. Manchester City, for example, has already secured $51.7m for reaching the last 16 and could earn up to $125m by winning the tournament — figures that rival UEFA Champions League payouts.

While FIFA awarded the 2025 Club World Cup to the USA without a formal bidding process, the 2029 edition is expected to involve a competitive selection, given the growing interest from multiple nations. FIFA declined to comment on the ongoing discussions or potential host selection.

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