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Is the Club World Cup’s Flashy Makeover Ruining Football?

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Andy Hageman | Last updated Jun 20, 2025 12:10 PM ET

FIFA’s revamped Club World Cup has truly landed in the USA, bursting with bold innovations. From body cameras on referees to live VAR replays, the tournament feels like a Hollywood blockbuster. But are these changes revolutionizing football or turning it into an Americanized spectacle?

The 2025 Club World Cup, hosted across the US from June 15 to July 13, showcases 32 so-called elite teams, including Manchester City and Chelsea. FIFA mandates clubs field their strongest squads, with fines of at least $445,000 for withdrawals according to Sky Sports. This ensures star power but sparks debate about player fatigue.

Is the Club World Cup a Spectacle or Spectacular?

Referees now wear body cameras, broadcasting their perspective live. Fans in stadiums see VAR decisions on giant screens, adding drama and transparency. Semi-automated offside technology, using advanced sensors, promises faster, accurate calls, though some purists argue it disrupts the game’s flow.

"Superior Player" voted on by the public is surely a winner?

The tournament’s group-and-knockout format, with massive prize money, aims to rival the Champions League (FIFA hopes). FIFA’s decision to reassign ticket holders’ seats to fill TV-friendly sections has raised eyebrows, with critics calling it a superficial fix for empty stadiums according to the Daily Mail. There is no doubt this less about passion and more about perceived popularity.

These changes scream spectacle, tailored for American audiences craving entertainment. Live VAR and referee cams feel like reality TV, while the hefty fines ensure a star-studded cast. Yet, some fans on X worry the tournament’s soul is lost in the glitz, prioritizing flash over football’s gritty essence.

Players coming out to glamour and glitz one-by-one is an odd-one!

Chelsea midfielder Romeo Lavia is clearly a fan. He said: "I think it's something special and new for us. I enjoyed it. Why not bring it to the Premier League?"

He went on to say that whilst a bit show-biz it might be fun, but also noted that being first out might mean a bit of a wait for teammates; which, in England in the cold wet rain might cause a few raised eyebrows.

Lop-sided games are no fun for fans or viewers. That should change.

The expanded 32-team format, up from seven, boosts inclusivity, featuring clubs from every continent says FIFA. However, whispers of a 2029 expansion to 48 teams and relaxed two-club-per-nation limits have European giants grumbling on X. The balance between global reach and elite quality, teeters.

Player welfare remains a hot topic. With packed schedules, forcing clubs to bring top players risks burnout, especially post-season. FIFA’s innovations aim to elevate the game, but critics argue they cater more to casual US fans than diehard supporters.

The "8-second rule" for goalkeepers has been seen for the first time.

The Club World Cup’s new vibe is undeniably fun, with tech-driven excitement and a festival-like atmosphere. Yet, the Americanized gloss, think big screens and even bigger bucks, has some fans nostalgic for simpler times. Will FIFA’s gamble make this a global celebration or a commercialized circus?

FIFA’s vision is bold, blending cutting-edge tech with football’s heart. The body cams and live VAR add intrigue, but the push for spectacle might alienate traditionalists. As the tournament unfolds, its legacy hangs on whether it unites fans or divides them over its flashy new face.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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