China's Hisense named the inaugural sponsor of new Club World Cup

Chinese electronics company Hisense has strengthened its partnership with FIFA by becoming the inaugural official sponsor of the 2025 Club World Cup, announced on Wednesday.

The upcoming tournament, set to take place in the United States, has faced criticism regarding the increased demands it will impose on players, and FIFA has yet to disclose any broadcasting agreements.

The previous iteration of the Club World Cup included seven teams; however, the new format will significantly expand to feature 32 teams, including prominent clubs such as Real Madrid, Manchester City, and Bayern Munich.

In a statement, FIFA indicated that the collaboration with Hisense "opens the door for additional sponsorship agreements for FIFA's new premier club competition, which will be revealed in the coming weeks."

During a press conference in Shanghai, FIFA President Gianni Infantino remarked, "Hisense's dedication to innovation and technology resonates with our vision for this tournament, which aims to unite the 32 finest teams globally for an extraordinary celebration of football that will transform club competition."

Hisense initially became a World Cup sponsor prior to the 2018 tournament held in Russia. Infantino also announced that Lionel Messi's Inter Miami will commence the club competition at Hard Rock Stadium, the home of the NFL's Miami Dolphins, on June 15.

The participation of the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner is expected to significantly enhance the visibility of the revamped tournament.

FIFA aspires for the competition to engage global television audiences and attract fans in the United States in anticipation of the 2026 World Cup. The expanded tournament is planned to occur every four years.

SportsLigue