The Court of Arbitration for Sport has upheld FIFA’s decision to kick Chelsea’s Club World Cup opponents Leon out of this summer’s inaugural competition – with the new team likely to be chosen via a play-off fixture.
The relaunched international tournament will play host to 32 teams in their new expanded format, with 2021 Champions League winners Chelsea one of two English teams to feature.
But Enzo Maresca’s side remain in the dark about one of their group stage opponents, with Leon punished by FIFA after being deemed in breach of their multi-club ownership rules.
Both Leon and Liga MX rivals CF Pachuca are owned by Grupo Pachuca, with the latter club also qualifying for the tournament.
Leon were hopeful of joining Chelsea in Group D, alongside Flamengo of Brazil, and Tunisian outfit Esperance de Tunis.
But Tuesday’s ruling confirmed that they would be unable to participate in the blockbuster tournament.
Despite the tournament kicking off in over a month, Chelsea are still missing a Group D rival
FIFA’s expanded tournament will feature 32 teams – but not Mexican giants Leon after the side fell foul of their rules
Costa Rican outfit Alajuelense were tipped as a candidate to replace the club, but as of yet, no club has been confirmed to the vacant slot with just over one month until the first match of the tournament.
But as per BBC Sport, the competition could mount a one-off play-off game to find the final Group D side, with MLS’ LAFC and Mexican team Club America the two teams likely to be drawn.
LAFC were beaten by Leon in the 2023 Concacaf Champions League final, and Club America were the highest ranked team behind Leon that has not already qualified.
‘Fifa can confirm it is considering one play-off match between LAFC and Club America for the right to participate in the Fifa Club World Cup 2025,’ a Fifa statement read.
Were LAFC likely to be victorious, the decision would bring about a reunion between striker Olivier Giroud and his former club Chelsea.
The France international won the Europa League, Champions League, and FA Cup with the Blues during his four-year tenure in west London.
