Set to be a warm-up event for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup that will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, the Club World Cup will feature 32 teams from leagues around the world, including the English Premier League, MLS, Bundesliga, and La Liga.

From the new-look format to the qualification criteria and venues, Al Jazeera gives a lowdown on the tournament.

In principle there ought to be nothing particularly contentious about a competition to decide the best club side in the world. Between 1960 and 2004 the champions of Europe and South America faced off for bragging rights,