Chinese electronics giant Hisense has solidified its partnership with FIFA, becoming the first official sponsor for the expanded 2025 Club World Cup set to take place in the United States. The tournament, which will feature 32 teams, including global clubs like Real Madrid, Manchester City, and Bayern Munich, marks a shift from previous editions that included only seven teams. Despite concerns over the increased strain on players, FIFA president Gianni Infantino praised Hisense’s support, stating that the company’s focus on “innovation and technology aligns with our vision” for a transformative tournament.
Infantino confirmed Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami will kick off the tournament on June 15 at Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium, a high-profile start aimed at boosting the event’s appeal. FIFA hopes this expanded Club World Cup will captivate global audiences and create enthusiasm in the U.S. ahead of the 2026 World Cup. Hisense initially partnered with FIFA as a World Cup sponsor in 2018, and this new agreement positions it as a key player in FIFA’s flagship club competition. Additional sponsorships are expected in the coming weeks as FIFA gears up for what it plans to hold as a quadrennial event.
