Why are Barcelona not part of 2025 FIFA Club World Cup? Reason explained

Barcelona failed to qualify for the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup after not winning the UEFA Champions League in the last four years. The Catalan club also missed out via coefficient rankings, finishing behind Atletico Madrid, who secured the second Spanish slot. FIFA limited participation to two clubs per nation, meaning only Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid qualified from Spain.

Real Madrid earned their place by winning the Champions League in 2022 and 2024, while Atletico accumulated more coefficient points than Barcelona since the 2020/21 season. FIFA president Gianni Infantino has hailed the new 32-team format as a historic moment for football. He described the tournament as the “big bang” of club competitions, emphasizing its significance in determining the world’s best team.

The revamped Club World Cup kicks off on June 14 in North America, featuring top clubs from across the globe. Infantino expressed excitement over the tournament’s new trophy, calling it an iconic symbol of past, present, and future football excellence. Despite Barcelona’s absence, their legendary forward Lionel Messi will participate with Inter Miami.

The MLS side qualified as hosts after winning the 2024 Supporters’ Shield, while LAFC secured a spot via playoffs following Club Leon’s disqualification due to ownership rules. Infantino recently praised Barcelona’s young star Lamine Yamal, calling him a “true champion” and expressing disappointment that he won’t feature in the tournament.

The FIFA president marveled at Yamal’s talent, suggesting he would have been a standout player. The tournament opener will see Inter Miami face Al Ahly, while Atletico Madrid take on Paris Saint-Germain on June 15. With no Barcelona involvement, Spanish hopes rest solely on the two Madrid clubs.

Barcelona’s failure to qualify highlights their recent struggles in European competitions. Unlike their rivals, they have not lifted the Champions League since 2015, leaving them reliant on coefficient rankings, where they fell short. The new Club World Cup format aims to elevate the prestige of the tournament, offering clubs a chance to compete on a grander stage. However,

Barcelona’s absence serves as a reminder of their decline in continental dominance over the past decade. While fans may lament Barcelona’s exclusion, the tournament promises thrilling matchups with the world’s best clubs. Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid will carry Spanish hopes, aiming to cement their status among football’s elite.

The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup marks a new era in club football, but for Barcelona, it’s a missed opportunity to reclaim their place at the pinnacle of the sport. Their focus now shifts to domestic and European redemption in the coming seasons.