Club World Cup: Mexican side Club Leon removed from tournament by Fifa
Leon disagreed with FIFA’s decision and said they would appeal to the sport’s Supreme Court if they were stripped of a place at the event.
The club added: “Over the past few months, we have presented all the evidence and documents that have confirmed that the Leon Club manages itself in an autonomous manner in all economic, administrative and sports aspects.”
The decision to allow both teams to enter was challenged by the Costa Rica club, the Deportiva alajuelense, who canceled the 2023 Cup of Central America. That same year, Leon was crowned the winner of the CONCACAF Champions League, a game that Pachuca won in 2024 and his place was not affected.
Chelsea will face Leon in Atlanta on June 16, with Brazil’s Flamenco and Tunisia’s Esperance also in Group D.
The FIFA spokesperson said: “FIFA took note of the decision of the FIFA Appeals Board, which follows an independent process.
“The integrity of all competitions is crucial and consistent with Article 10.4 of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup regulations and will provide more details when appropriate.”
