FIFA Club World Cup 2025 Assessment – DW
# African Clubs earn Millions Despite Stadium Attendance Woes
While the financial health of African clubs participating in international tournaments is showing promising signs, with notable prize money distributed, the overall success of the competitions is being hampered by issues of stadium attendance and challenging environmental conditions.
## African Clubs Secure substantial Earnings
The financial rewards for African representatives in major football tournaments are substantial, offering a vital boost too their growth and sustainability. Mamelodi Sundowns, a prominent club from the African continent, is reported to have earned €10.6 million, narrowly missing out on advancing to the round of 16.Fellow African giants Al Ahly and Sports Hope of Tunis each secured €9.8 million, demonstrating their competitive prowess. Wydad Casablanca rounded off the African contingent, returning to Morocco with €8 million. These figures highlight the growing financial capacity of African clubs on the global stage.
## Stadium Attendance Presents a Mixed Picture
The popular success of these competitions, frequently enough measured by stadium attendance, has proven to be a more complex metric. While approximately 2.5 million tickets were sold overall – a respectable figure – the choice of massive stadiums, predominantly seating between 70,000 and 80,000, appeared to be a miscalculation, with many venues sounding “hollow.” A stark example of this was the match between Atletico Madrid and Botafogo on June 23rd, which drew fewer than 23,000 spectators to the Bowl Pink stadium, a venue with a capacity of 89,000. This disparity between stadium capacity and actual attendance raises questions about venue selection and fan engagement strategies.
## Challenges for Future Tournaments
Looking ahead, several key challenges need to be addressed to ensure the continued success and appeal of international football tournaments.
### The Impact of Extreme heat
The issue of extreme heat, especially in the United States, has been acknowledged by FIFA President Gianni Infantino as a “real problem.” This concern is amplified as the 2026 World Cup, co-organized by the US, Mexico, and Canada, approaches. the scorching temperatures observed during recent events were exacerbated by scheduling decisions, with matches frequently set for noon or early afternoon to cater to European television audiences. This practice, while understandable from a broadcasting perspective, directly impacts player welfare and spectator comfort.
### Welcoming International Supporters
Moreover,the reception of international supporters in future tournaments,particularly in the United States,remains a point of consideration. The immigration policies enacted by the trump administration have cast a shadow, raising concerns about the ease of entry for foreign fans attending the 2026 World Cup. The reinstatement of entry bans for nationals from several countries, predominantly in Africa and the middle East, coupled with the possibility of further restrictions, could significantly impact global participation and the vibrant atmosphere expected at such a prestigious event. Ensuring a welcoming habitat for all fans will be crucial for the tournament’s overall success.