FIFA Launches a New Era with Historic 32-Team Tournament and Star-Studded Kickoff Event
Global music meets global football as FIFA announces that Moroccan-American rap star French Montana will co-headline the Opening Ceremony of the inaugural 32-team FIFA Club World Cup™, alongside Grammy-nominated artist Swae Lee. The highly anticipated celebration will take place at Hard Rock Stadiumin Miami, setting the stage for the opening match between Inter Miami CF and Al Ahly FC.
From Casablanca to Center Stage
Born Karim Kharbouch in Casablanca, Morocco, French Montana immigrated to the Bronx at age 13, where he launched his music career under the name Young French. Rising from underground notoriety through his Cocaine CityDVD series, Montana eventually founded Coke Boys Records and broke into the mainstream with his debut album Excuse My French in 2013.
In 2017, he teamed up with Swae Lee for the chart-topping hit “Unforgettable,” which later became the first diamond-certified single by an African-born artist. The duo now reunites to mark another historic moment: kicking off FIFA’s largest club tournament ever.
A Night of Music, Unity, and Global Celebration
The opening ceremony, themed “A New Era Begins,” will be creatively directed by Grammy-winning producer Emilio Estefan Jr. and Balich Wonder Studio, the visionary team behind the 2022 FIFA World Cup opener. The celebration will include high-energy performances by rising Latin talents Vikina and Richaelio, culminating in a dynamic performance by French Montana and Swae Lee.
One of the ceremony’s most symbolic moments will feature 32 youth athletes, each representing a participating club, assembling on the pitch to spell out “FIFA.” This display will later be preserved at the FIFA Museum in Zurich, serving as a lasting tribute to the tournament’s global spirit.
A Tournament of Firsts
The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup™ marks the debut of an expanded 32-team format, featuring top clubs from all six FIFA confederations, including representatives from Europe, South America, Africa, Asia, North America, and Oceania. The month-long tournament will unfold across 11 U.S. cities, concluding with the final match at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on July 13.
With a prize pool exceeding $1 billion, the competition not only raises the stakes on the pitch but also elevates FIFA’s mission of using football as a bridge for cultural exchange and global unity.
Beyond the Music
Beyond his chart-topping success, French Montana is also recognized for his philanthropic work, including healthcare initiatives in Uganda and educational support in Morocco. His presence at the opening ceremony amplifies FIFA’s message of using sport and culture to inspire, connect, and uplift communities worldwide.
As FIFA ushers in a new chapter in football history, French Montana, Swae Lee, and a diverse cast of global artists will ignite the stage—and the world—with a celebration that blends sport, music, and meaning.