A 48-team men’s World Cup in North America is expected to significantly boost FIFA’s earnings to $11 billion by 2026. Financial projections for the next four years were presented to FIFA’s ruling Council today, and they call for an increase of nearly 50% in revenue thanks to broadcasting and sponsor deals for the men’s World Cup, as well as ticket sales and hospitality at a tournament that will use several NFL stadiums.
As a rule, FIFA underestimates costs and ends up spending more than planned. The commercial cycle 2019-22 in Qatar revealed last month saw revenues of $7.5 billion, which was $1 billion more than expected. In addition, the number of games that will be played and sold to broadcasters at the 48-team World Cup is unknown.
Spain’s Busquets Retires from Internationals
Midfielder Sergio Busquets, a regular for Spain’s national team for almost a decade and a key figure in the country’s 2010 World Cup victory, has announced his retirement from international competition.
Despite having won the 2012 European Championship with Spain, Busquets, now 34, has decided to retire from international play.
Iker Casillas (167) and Sergio Ramos (180) are the only Spanish players with more caps than they do. “It has been an honor to serve my nation at the highest level, to be a world and European champion, to be captain, and to play so many games, with greater or less success but always giving my all,” Busquets said. Busquets led Spain to a World Cup victory in Qatar as captain.
Morocco Picked to Host Club World Cup
FIFA announced today that Morocco will host the 2019 Club World Cup in February, with plans for a larger, 32-team tournament beginning in 2025. Seven teams, including European champion Real Madrid, South American champion Flamengo, and Seattle Sounders, the first CONCACAF Champions League victor from the United States, will compete from February 1-11.
Morocco will host the next global soccer event in six weeks after the country’s impressive journey to the World Cup semifinals in Qatar. This decision was made by FIFA’s ruling council. Agencies
