|
FIFA has announced that the Club World Cup will return to Japan in 2015 and 2016. The Club World Cup, a knockout competition contested between the champions of the six FIFA confederations as well as the winners of host nation's domestic league title, has previously been staged in Japan in 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2011 and 2012. The Japan FA (JFA) is set to announce the host cities shortly, but the final has taken place in Yokohama on all six occasions the Asian nation has staged the tournament. FIFA secretary general Jerome Valcke told the governing body's official website: "This is a country with a proven track record when it comes to staging FIFA events, including six editions of the FIFA Club World Cup, which were all successful. "We know it will be a superb setting once again for this annual competition with good-sized crowds and a wonderful atmosphere. The popularity and profile of the competition continues to build each year and this is sure to continue with the huge support shown within Japan." Japan has yet to see a club reach the final of the competition, which was first staged in 2000, but JFA president Kuniya Daini feels it is beneficial to the nation's teams. "It is a valuable opportunity for both players and fans to witness the world trends in club football," Daini said. "Not only does this competition bring exciting and entertaining football, it also gives us an insight into each participating country's club culture and the respective domestic leagues. "Together with FIFA, we will do our utmost to ensure the success of this competition. It will be an important experience for us as we look forward to hosting other major sporting events including the Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games." The Club World Cup has been staged 11 times to date, with UEFA Champions League sides winning on seven occasions and Copa Libertadores winners -- all from Brazil -- lifting the trophy four times. The only finalists to come from outside UEFA and CONMEBOL have been CAF Champions League winners TP Mazembe and Raja Casablanca. Real Madrid, who beat Argentine side San Lorenzo 2-0 in December, are the current holders.
|
