Leon's Club World Cup Dreams Dashed After Appeal Rejected

Mexican side Club Leon won't participate in the Club World Cup after losing appeal against FIFA's decision.

Club Leon has been officially removed from this year's Club World Cup after losing their appeal to FIFA. The Mexican team had qualified for the tournament by winning the 2023 CONCACAF Champions Cup, but was barred from participating due to a breach of FIFA's ownership rules.

BREAKING: Mexican side Club León have lost their appeal against FIFA and will not participate in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup.

The team was removed due to FIFA’s multi-club ownership rules, as both León and fellow qualifier Pachuca are owned by the same parent group 🚨 pic.twitter.com/tEfSbNAtSc

— Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) May 6, 2025

The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) rejected Leon's appeal, upholding FIFA's decision. In response, Leon released a statement expressing their disappointment and determination, saying, “This is the greatest damage done to a team that has always competed with humility and honesty.”

The club vowed to regain their place through sporting merit, stating, “The only thing left for us is to win again to regain the place on the field that was taken from us. Have no doubt, as long as no one prevents us from doing so again, we will do it.” Despite the setback, Leon remains resolute in their pursuit of success.

🚫 James and León out of the Club World Cup
The CAS upheld FIFA's ruling: León won’t play in 2025 due to shared ownership. A tough blow for James and La Fiera 🦁#beINSPORTS #ClubWorldCup #JamesRodriguez pic.twitter.com/Ua6A2nxaJ0

— beIN SPORTS USA (@beINSPORTSUSA) May 6, 2025

The 2025 Club World Cup is set to feature 32 teams competing from June 14 to July 13 in the United States, with a massive $1 billion in prize money up for grabs. Teams qualified for the tournament either by winning their confederation's top club competition or through a ranking system based on performances over a four-year period.

Following Club Leon's removal from the tournament, FIFA is exploring options to fill the spot. According to FIFA President Gianni Infantino, a potential playoff between Los Angeles FC and Club America is being considered to determine which team will replace Leon in the competition.