Infantino Confirms América vs. LAFC Playoff If León Is Excluded From Club World Cup

FIFA president Gianni Infantino has confirmed that if León’s exclusion from the 2025 Club World Cup is upheld, a playoff will be held between Club América and LAFC to determine the final participant. According to ESPN, the decision hinges on the ruling of the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), expected on May 6.

León was disqualified by FIFA’s Appeals Committee due to a breach of regulations regarding multi-club ownership involving Pachuca, another Club World Cup qualifier. While León has appealed to CAS, FIFA is already preparing an alternative in case the ban is confirmed.

Infantino stated during a press conference at Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium that “if CAS upholds the decision, the plan is to hold a playoff between the CONCACAF Champions League runner-up LAFC and the next-ranked team, América.”

The winner would join Group D of the tournament, originally set to include León. América, a three-time Mexican champion, would return to the international stage, while LAFC is aiming for redemption after falling short in the 2023 CONCACAF final.

Infantino also used the occasion to unveil the tournament trophy, crafted by Tiffany, and announced a $1 million FIFA donation to youth initiatives in Atlanta. He emphasized the tournament’s importance, saying it will feature “the best teams, the best players,” and reiterated FIFA’s commitment to growing the sport in the U.S. ahead of next year’s World Cup.