FIFA announced on Monday that Jeddah, the home city of Saudi Arabian champions Al-Ittihad, will host the 2023 Club World Club.
The tournament will take place from December 12th to 22nd and feature the participation of the six continental club champions, including Manchester City, the winners of the UEFA Champions League.
This will be the final edition of the tournament in its current format before the introduction of a 32-team version in the United States in 2025.
The matches will be played at the King Abdullah Sport City Stadium, with a capacity of approximately 62,000 spectators, and the Prince Abdullah Al Faisal Stadium, which can accommodate around 27,000 fans.
Karim Benzema, who helped Real Madrid win the trophy in February, will aim to defend the title with Al-Ittihad, after defeating Saudi club Al-Hilal in the final held in Morocco.
The tournament will commence with a first-round match between Al-Ittihad and Auckland City, the Oceania champions. The winner will advance to the second round, where they will join León from Mexico, Al-Ahly from Egypt, and Urawa Red Diamonds from Japan.
Manchester City and the South American champion will enter the tournament at the semifinal stage, with the Copa Libertadores final scheduled for November 4th.
All continental champions from 2021 to 2024, except from Oceania, will directly qualify for the expanded tournament in 2025.
The decision to host the 2023 Club World Club in Saudi Arabia reflects the nation’s efforts to increase its presence in international sports. The country will also host the 2027 Asian Cup and is expected to bid for the men’s 2034 World Cup.