Fifadecision to exclude Club Leon from it 2025 FIFA Club World Cup has led to controversy – and a legal challenge. After taking the matter to Arbitration Court for Sport (CAS)the Mexican club, led by Colombian star James Rodriguezis now Waiting for a final judgment in the hope of regaining its place in the prestigious tournament.
The March decision of the governing body was based on Article 10 of its tournament rules, which say: “No individual or legal entity may control or exert influence over more than one club participating in the competition. “FIFA claimed that Club Leon failed to provide sufficient evidence to prove independence from Pachuca groupThe ownership group that also controls other participants CF Pachuca.
According to ESPNLeon’s appeal was heard on Monday at Ca’s headquarters in Switzerland. The negotiation reportedly lasted more than six hours, with a final judgment expected Tuesday morning (European time). A favorable judgment would reintroduce Leon’s justification for the tournament, scheduled to start June 14 in the United States.
James Rodriguez speaks against Fifa
The decision captured many of the guard – especially León fans who had already started planning their journey to support the team on Club -World Cup. James Rodriguez, one of the troop’s biggest stars, Did not hold back when he criticized FIFA’s handling of the situation.
“I think there are interests that go beyond many things. I doubt all this. It’s strange. I think there is a great interest in making sure someone else is there. I think Fifa must rise. I have doubts, I really do. And i think football is colored“Said the Colombian star at a press conference in March.
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Who can replace Club Leon?
With the CAS decision expected within a few hours, speculation has grown over Which team can replace León if the decision is contrary to them. FIFA President Gianni Infantino spoke to ESPNCarlos Nava, describes a possible solution:
“The decision (for the vacant place) could possibly be playing a match, A playoffs between the team that lost the Champions Cup final to Leon, which is LAFC, and the next team in the ranking, which is America. Then we’ll see. “
