FIFA President Gianni Infantino talks to journalists after a meeting with Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva at the Planalto Palace in Brasilia, Brazil January 26, 2026. REUTERS/Mateus Bonomi
Jan 27 (Reuters) - Brazil intends to bid for the 2029 Club World Cup, Brazilian Football Confederation head Samir Xaud confirmed on Monday following a meeting between the country's President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and FIFA chief Gianni Infantino.
The announcement was made after a high-level gathering at the Planalto Palace in Brasília, which included Sports Minister Andre Fufuca and Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti.
"We believe Brazil is capable of hosting this grand event, but it requires a lot of discussions and adjustments. However, Brazil will indeed submit its bid for 2029," Xaud told the country's official news agency Agencia Brasil.
FIFA has yet to open the bidding for the 2029 tournament. The first expanded version of the Club World Cup was held last year in the United States, with Chelsea emerging as champions. Rival bids are expected from Spain, Morocco and Qatar.
While Spain and Morocco - plus Portugal - will stage the 2030 World Cup, the selection of hosts for the Club World Cup operates independently. This marks a departure from past practice, where tournaments like the Confederations Cup often served as test events for the World Cup.
Infantino's visit to Brazil coincided with events related to the 2027 Women's World Cup, which Brazil will host for the first time. On Sunday, FIFA unveiled official branding for the event, which will feature 32 teams competing between June and July.
(Reporting by Fernando Kallas; Editing by Ken Ferris)
