Club World Cup 2025: CAS rejects Club León's appeal!

The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) delivered its verdict today, Tuesday, May 6, on Club León's appeal regarding its exclusion from the FIFA Club World Cup, a decision previously made by FIFA.

The world football governing body had earlier announced the exclusion of León, who were set to compete in this summer's tournament in the United States, due to their dual ownership link with Pachuca and for breaching FIFA's regulations on multiple club ownership.

According to Spanish newspaper "Marca", CAS rejected Club León's appeal yesterday during its session in Lausanne, Switzerland. The appeal from Costa Rican club Alajuelense, who had hoped to replace León, was also turned down.

The Court thus confirmed FIFA's decision to exclude the Mexican club because it shares ownership with Pachuca, another side already qualified for the Club World Cup.

A playoff match between Club América and Los Angeles FC!

To determine which team will take Club León's spot, FIFA has scheduled a playoff match between Club América and Los Angeles FC, set to be played at the end of May. This clash will decide the final berth for the tournament.

It's important to note that the team replacing Club León will be drawn into Group D alongside Chelsea (England), Espérance Sportive de Tunis, and Flamengo (Brazil).

Also read: Club World Cup 2025: FIFA shuts the door on Al-Nassr!

Mohamed Rek |

Editorfr, ar, en

Mohamed Rek- sports content writer with over 10 years of experience creating football content in Arabic and French for platforms such as Foot Africa and Starafrica, combining accuracy, creativity, and audience engagement.