Inter Miami CF co-owner Jorge Mas has confidently asserted that there is “no controversy” surrounding the club’s qualification for the prestigious 2025 Club World Cup. This qualification comes on the heels of remarkable achievements, including their victory in the 2023 Leagues Cup and clinching the 2024 Supporters’ Shield, while also setting the all-time Major League Soccer (MLS) record for points accumulated in a season. Mas articulated the club’s aspirations candidly, emphasizing that the pursuit of such accolades was intrinsically tied to their vision for 2024. “One of our goals for 2024 was to qualify for the Club World Cup,” he stated. This assertive declaration highlights the club’s commitment not only to domestic success but also to excelling on an international stage.
In a significant announcement made by FIFA President Gianni Infantino on October 18, Inter Miami was granted the final Concacaf slot to participate in the forthcoming Club World Cup. This momentous decision adds the Herons to a competitive North American lineup, which includes renowned teams such as Seattle Sounders FC, CF Monterrey, Club Leon, and CF Pachuca. The draw has placed Inter Miami in Group A, where they will contend with formidable opponents, including Brazil’s Palmeiras, Portugal’s FC Porto, and Egypt’s Al Ahly SC. Starting their campaign on June 15, facing Al Ahly at Hard Rock Stadium, Miami’s journey promises to be a thrilling challenge, one that Mas described as “difficult” but filled with hope.
Mas emphasized that the primary goal for Inter Miami in the Club World Cup is to navigate past the group stages successfully. “A good tournament for the team would be to make it out of the group stage and compete,” he remarked, illustrating a pragmatic yet ambitious approach. This reflects a broader motivation within the club to not merely participate but to make a meaningful impact on the global stage, showcasing their talent and determination.
To prepare for such crucial tournaments, Mas has pledged that the club will take actionable steps to build a resilient roster. This includes minimizing the distractions of the preseason, starting preparations sooner in January with focused training that ensures player wellness. Learning from the previous year’s demanding global tour, the organization aims to establish a structured and efficient approach that prioritizes the health and performance of its players, especially under the stewardship of coach Javier Mascherano. Mas noted, “We learned from last year… the health of our players is paramount.”
Addressing criticisms from various quarters, including renowned player Lionel Messi, regarding the intensity of the preseason tour, Mas has assured that the upcoming preparation will be both concise and impactful. By selecting “important” rivals for matches, the club intends to strike the right balance between competition and player well-being. This shift in strategy signals Inter Miami’s ongoing evolution as a team committed to both their players’ health and their growth as a brand with global appeal, highlighted by their distinctive pink kits.
With a busy calendar ahead in 2025, including participation in the Leagues Cup, Concacaf Champions Cup, Club World Cup, and the MLS regular season, Inter Miami is poised to be at the forefront of professional soccer. The club’s ambitions are clear: they aim to make a mark not only within the United States but also on an international level. As they prepare for their upcoming challenges, the strong leadership and strategic planning instilled by Mas serve as a solid foundation for what promises to be a historic year. Inter Miami seeks not just to compete, but to thrive in a world where soccer transcends borders and unites fans globally.