This Club World Cup has served as an unexpected yet effective warm-up act for what lies ahead in 2026 with the FIFA World Cup.
And perhaps the biggest revelation has been that American fans are every bit as resilient as the players on the pitch.
Some 80,619 of them came to the Rose Bowl Stadium with 32°C (90°F) heat and 70% humidity to watch PSG – Atletico de Madrid on Matchday 1 of the group stage, now more than a week ago.
There wasn’t enough water for the crowd, and even Pasadena firefighters struggled to reach heatstroke victims. But still, they came. They stayed. They cheered. That passion, especially from Latino fans, whose devotion remains untouchable despite social and political pressure, was unmistakable.
We've also learned that Europe still tends to underestimate the competitive spirit of South American clubs (just ask PSG, Benfica, or Atlético Madrid); That not every player heading to the Saudi Pro League is washed up; That some players, clinging to the twilight of their careers, are no longer a joy to watch (I am not talking about Messi); That if your club doesn't sign any new player for this tournament, you’re simply left behind.
FIFA gonna FIFA
And we’ve been reminded that FIFA's environmental pledges still ring hollow. This competition, like the expanded 2026 World Cup, only ramps up the carbon footprint — with record numbers of teams, thousands of miles of air travel between the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, and a sponsor lineup filled with oil companies and airlines. So much for sustainability.
Yet amid all that, what fans have truly cherished is the chance to see their beloved teams play close to home, surrounded by their communities. For many, it’s more than a game, it’s a family reunion, a cultural celebration, a reminder of home.
FIFA, of course, leans into the American-style spectacle: player walkouts NBA style (even if the speaker mispronounces their names), extended breaks to buy as much merchandise and concession fare as possible, music used after every goal, and 3 p.m. kickoffs tailored for European audiences.
Rather than addressing these issues, it seems likely that the 2026 World Cup will only double down on them.
Let’s just hope that when it’s time, players like Dembélé and Mbappé show up — so we can see how they measure up to Messi, up close and personal.