Madrid's dominance in the Club World Cup era
Since the tournament's rebranding in 2005, Real Madrid have been untouchable. Their 2016 victory over Kashima Antlers marked the first of three consecutive titles under Zinedine Zidane. The 2022 final saw Vinícius Júnior score the winner against Al-Hilal in Morocco. Carlo Ancelotti's side have turned these tournaments into formalities – their 5-3 semifinal win over Al Jazira in 2017 was the only time they've conceded more than one goal in a Club World Cup match.
How the 2025 tournament differs for Madrid
The expanded 32-team format means Madrid won't enter at the semifinal stage like in previous years. They'll face CONMEBOL's 2024 Copa Libertadores winners in their opening match. With Jude Bellingham now central to their setup and Kylian Mbappé potentially arriving, their 2025 squad could be even stronger than the teams that lifted the trophy in Abu Dhabi (2017) and Rabat (2022).
Why this trophy matters at the Bernabéu
Florentino Pérez insists on treating the Club World Cup with full seriousness – a contrast to some European clubs. When Madrid lost the 2000 final to Boca Juniors, it sparked a decade of investment in Galácticos. Their 2014 win over San Lorenzo marked the beginning of their modern Champions League dynasty. The trophy sits prominently in their museum alongside European Cups.
Related coverage
Frequently asked questions
How many Club World Cups has Real Madrid won?+
Five: 2014, 2016, 2017, 2018, and 2022 – all won under different managers (Ancelotti, Zidane, and Solari).
When is Real Madrid's next Club World Cup?+
June-July 2025 in the United States, as part of the expanded 32-team format.
Who scored in Madrid's last Club World Cup final?+
Vinícius Júnior (2 goals) and Federico Valverde in their 5-3 win over Al-Hilal in 2022.
Has Real Madrid ever lost a Club World Cup final?+
Yes – in 2000 as the Intercontinental Cup (1-2 to Boca Juniors) before the current format existed.
Which manager has won the most Club World Cups with Madrid?+
Zinedine Zidane with three (2016, 2017, 2018), all part of his Champions League three-peat.