Al-Khelaïfi launches World Football Clubs as global union
Nasser Al-Khelaïfi confirmed on Tuesday the creation of World Football Clubs, a worldwide federation for football teams, during the European Football Clubs (EFC) congress in Copenhagen. The announcement came in a highly anticipated address from the Qatar‑born president of Paris Saint-Germain and the continental association. It marks a significant step beyond the existing European club union.
Global union announced in Copenhagen
Speaking from the tribune at the EFC gathering, Al‑Khelaïfi said the new body will give clubs a stronger voice with international governing structures. He highlighted that clubs are "more global and more international than ever, while remaining rooted in their local communities". The declaration was reported by, with journalist Nicolas Pelletier on the scene in Copenhagen, Denmark.
Ambitions and fan focus
Al‑Khelaïfi outlined ambitions for the federation, stressing better representation for clubs, players, coaches and supporters worldwide. He illustrated the fan perspective, noting supporters could follow their club from Copenhagen to Cairo, New York to Tokyo with the same passion. The president also linked the initiative to the current crisis at FIFA under Gianni Infantino, describing the timing as "the moment is right to create World Football Clubs".
The new organisation aims to create advantages for clubs across Europe and beyond, offering a platform for connection and shared resources. Al‑Khelaïfi asserted that every club deserves representation, a voice and the best chances of success on the global stage. He positioned the move as a logical evolution of the EFC into a worldwide network.
In his remarks, Al‑Khelaïfi emphasized that local roots and global impact coexist for clubs, their players, competitions and partners. He called for clubs to develop through improved dialogue with international football authorities. The announcement underscores the strategic push by the Paris Saint‑Germain chief to expand influence beyond France.
The launch of World Football Clubs arrives as FIFA navigates an unprecedented crisis, with Infantino’s presidency intensifying tensions among football’s governing bodies. Al‑Khelaïfi’s proposal seeks to offer clubs a collective platform to navigate these challenges. The initiative signals a new era of coordinated club representation on a worldwide scale.