FIFA Plans Playoff for Club World Cup Spot Between LAFC and America

FIFA President Gianni Infantino says LAFC and Club America might compete in a playoff for a spot in the Club World Cup after Club Leon's removal due to multi-club ownership rules.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino announced that Los Angeles FC and Mexico's Club America might compete in a playoff for a spot in the Club World Cup. This development comes after Club Leon was removed from the tournament due to multi-club ownership rules. “In a couple of weeks we will have the final and definitive decision, we will respect any decision,” Infantino said, referring to the ongoing appeal process.

The potential playoff would determine which team takes Leon's place in the June 14-July 13 tournament. Leon has appealed the decision to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), which will ultimately decide their fate. Infantino's comments suggest FIFA is exploring alternative solutions to fill the spot, with LAFC and Club America being potential participants.

BREAKING: It is OFFICIAL. #LAFC will play Club America in a single playoff match to determine who will go to the FIFA Club World Cup.

HUGE match, many many millions on the line. https://t.co/qLKVLYJy6M

— LAFC 𝕏 (@LAFC_X) April 15, 2025

FIFA President Gianni Infantino revealed plans for a potential playoff match between Los Angeles FC (LAFC) and Club America for a spot in the Club World Cup. “What we are looking at is that, if CAS confirms the decision of the Appeals Committee, FIFA's intention is to play a match, a playoff, between the team that lost the final of the CONCACAF Champions League, LAFC, and the next team in the ranking, which is America,” Infantino explained.

The Club World Cup is set to feature 32 teams and offer $1 billion in prize money. The tournament is scheduled to take place from June 14 to July 13. The outcome of Club Leon's appeal will determine whether the playoff match between LAFC and Club America proceeds.