FIFA President Gianni Infantino has hailed the newly expanded Club World Cup as “the most successful club competition in the world,” ahead of its final clash between Paris Saint-Germain and Chelsea. The first-ever 32-team edition, hosted in the United States, has stirred controversy over player fatigue, extreme heat, and fan engagement—but Infantino insists the tournament has exceeded expectations on all fronts.

Speaking from FIFA’s new office at Trump Tower in New York, Infantino revealed the competition generated an impressive $2.1 billion in revenue across 63 matches—averaging $33 million per game. “No other club competition in the world comes close,” he stated, calling it a sign of club football entering a “golden age.”

The tournament faced skepticism from top figures in European football. Former Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp labeled it “the worst idea ever implemented in football,” citing concerns over scheduling strain on elite players. Infantino, however, pushed back, dismissing claims that Europe is broadly opposed to the event.

“All the teams who have come here have been happy,” he said. “Some teams that didn’t qualify were even calling to ask how they could.”

Despite reports of less-than-full stadiums, FIFA maintains that attendance and fan interest met expectations. Infantino also hinted at future expansion, though he stopped short of confirming whether the Club World Cup will be held every two years.

“We created something new… something that is here to stay,” Infantino concluded, underscoring FIFA’s ambitions to redefine the global club football landscape.

The next edition of the Club World Cup is scheduled for 2029.