Contents
Methodology
To find the richest clubs in the Club World Cup, we used the latest financial reports and expert sources.
Data sources
We relied on three main sources:
– Forbes 2025 Global soccer team valuations: Offers up-to-date data on club values and revenue.
– Deloitte football money league 2025: Breaks down revenue by matchday, media rights, and sponsorships.
– Transfermarkt: Provides club squad values and other financial details.
Evaluation criteria
We measured each club’s wealth using:
– Club valuation: The market value of the club.
– Annual revenue: Total income from games, TV rights, sponsorships, and merchandise.
– Revenue breakdown: How each club earns its money.
Scope
This analysis covers only the clubs competing in the 2025 tournament. Top teams like Manchester United and Liverpool are not included as they aren’t taking part.
By focusing on the financial strength of the participants, we aim to show how money might affect performance in the tournament.
Top 10 richest clubs participating Club World Cup
The CWC features a diverse lineup of 32 teams from around the globe. Among these, several clubs stand out not only for their on-pitch achievements but also for their substantial financial prowess. Below is a list of the top 10 wealthiest clubs participating in the tournament, based on their valuations and revenues as reported by Forbes in 2025:
1️⃣ Real Madrid (Spain)
– Valuation: $6.75 billion
– Revenue: $1.129 billion
– Overview: Real Madrid leads the list as the most valuable football club globally. Their impressive revenue surpasses the $1 billion mark, a testament to their global brand strength, consistent on-field success, and lucrative commercial partnerships.
2️⃣ Manchester City (England)
-Valuation: $5.3 billion
– Revenue: $901 million
– Overview: Manchester City’s financial growth has been propelled by their recent successes in domestic and European competitions, coupled with strategic investments and a global fanbase expansion.
3️⃣ Bayern Munich (Germany)
– Valuation: $5.1 billion
– Revenue: $827 million
– Overview: Bayern Munich remains a financial powerhouse in German football, with a strong emphasis on sustainable growth, youth development, and consistent performances in the UEFA Champions League.
4️⃣ Paris Saint-Germain (France)
– Valuation: $4.6 billion
– Revenue: $870 million
– Overview: PSG’s financial ascent is attributed to high-profile player acquisitions, global marketing strategies, and dominance in French domestic competitions.
5️⃣ Chelsea (England)
– Valuation: $3.25 billion
– Revenue: $591 million
– Overview: Chelsea’s valuation reflects their competitive stature in the Premier League and Europe, bolstered by recent ownership changes and strategic commercial deals.
6️⃣ Juventus (Italy)
– Valuation: $2.15 billion
– Revenue: $389 million
– Overview: Juventus continues to be Italy’s most valuable club, with a rich history, a strong domestic presence, and a growing international brand.
7️⃣ Borussia Dortmund (Germany)
– Valuation: $2.05 billion
– Revenue: $555 million
– Overview: Known for their passionate fanbase and youth development, Dortmund maintains a solid financial standing, consistently competing at high levels in both domestic and European arenas.
8️⃣ Atlético Madrid (Spain)
– Valuation: $1.7 billion
– Revenue: $442 million
– Overview: Atlético Madrid’s financial growth is underpinned by their competitive performances in La Liga and European competitions, as well as their modern stadium and expanding global reach.
9️⃣ Inter Milan (Italy)
– Valuation: $1.15 billion
– Revenue: $430 million
– Overview: Inter Milan’s resurgence in recent years, marked by domestic success and a strong squad, has positively impacted their financial valuation and revenue streams.
1️⃣0️⃣ Los Angeles FC (USA)
– Valuation: $1.25 billion
– Revenue: $150 million
– Overview: As the most valuable Major League Soccer club, LAFC’s rapid growth is driven by a strong local fanbase, strategic partnerships, and a focus on expanding their brand both domestically and internationally.
Financial gaps between clubs
The CWC features 32 teams from different continents, revealing a wide gap in financial strength.
Huge differences in club value
At the top is Real Madrid, valued at $6.75 billion with over $1.1 billion in annual revenue. On the other end, Auckland City from New Zealand has a squad worth just €5.2 million and many semi-professional players who work other jobs. This highlights the vast economic divide.
Prize money distribution
FIFA has set aside a record $1 billion in prize money, but payouts vary by region:
– Europe: $12.81M to $38.19M (based on performance and market strength)
– South America: $15.21M per club
– Asia, Africa, North/Central America: $9.55M per club
– Oceania: $3.58M per club
This tiered system reflects market realities but also risks deepening financial inequalities.
Impact on competition
Wealthier clubs can afford elite players, top facilities, and full support teams—giving them a major edge. Less wealthy teams often can’t compete at that level, possibly leading to more predictable outcomes and less excitement.
FIFA’s response
To help close the gap, FIFA has launched a $250 million solidarity fund. It’s aimed at supporting club development globally and encouraging more balanced competition.
How money shapes the tournament
Club finances play a big role in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, affecting team quality, preparation, and overall competitiveness.
Better squads and more depth
Wealthy clubs like Real Madrid and Manchester City can sign elite players such as Kylian Mbappé and Jude Bellingham. With deep squads, they’re better equipped to handle the tournament’s intense schedule and avoid fatigue or injuries.
Top-notch facilities and support
Rich clubs benefit from advanced training centres, medical teams, and data analysts. These tools boost player performance and recovery. In contrast, smaller clubs may lack such resources, affecting their preparedness.
Smarter strategies and top managers
Big budgets allow clubs to hire world-class managers and tactical experts. They can also adapt during the tournament with new signings or game plans, something less wealthy teams often can’t afford.
Global reach and commercial power
Big-name clubs already have international fanbases and sponsors. Performing well on this global stage helps them grow even more, boosting shirt sales, attracting sponsors, and strengthening their brand.
Challenges for smaller clubs
Clubs with fewer resources struggle to compete at the same level. While they may rely on teamwork and grit, financial limits can make it hard to keep up across the tournament.
Follow the money behind the match
The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup isn’t just a contest of footballing talent, it’s a showcase of financial firepower. With Sportmonks’ football API, you can explore how wealth shapes performance by pulling data on club values, squad strength, and match outcomes.
Whether you’re comparing billion-dollar clubs with underdog challengers or highlighting financial trends, our API gives you the insights to make your content stand out. Sign up for a free trial and bring a smarter perspective to global football coverage.
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