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Host Nation Slot Controversy: Was Messi's Miami a FIFA "Marketing Stunt"?

The Suspicious Qualification Timeline

Leaked reports confirm FIFA accelerated Inter Miami's host-nation invitation after their October 2024 Supporters' Shield win—bypassing MLS Cup champions LA Galaxy. The decision, made before the 2024 season concluded, prioritized Messi's commercial draw over sporting merit. This ignited fury among CONCACAF rivals, particularly after Mexico's Club León was disqualified for ownership violations. For Al Ahly—qualifying via three CAF Champions League titles since 2020—Miami's inclusion epitomizes Western privilege in FIFA's revamped structure.

Infantino's Ronaldo Comments Fuel Suspicion

FIFA President Gianni Infantino exacerbated perceptions of favoritism by suggesting Cristiano Ronaldo could "switch clubs" mid-tournament. Though Ronaldo declined, the implication that star power could override eligibility rules shocked purists. The optics intensify given Miami's $10 million participation fee—30 times their MLS Cup earnings—while Al Ahly receives $9.55M despite vastly superior continental achievements. Cairo Sports Weekly dubbed it "financial doping for MLS' relevance project."

Egyptian Media Backlash

Egyptian outlets have highlighted the contrast: Al Ahly qualified through 11 CAF titles, while Miami entered via a single MLS points record. When the teams meet on June 14, the match becomes a referendum on meritocracy. Should Miami advance over Al Ahly in Group A, FIFA's "sporting integrity" claims would face withering scrutiny. With Infantino banking on U.S. growth before the 2026 World Cup, the tournament risks being perceived as a $1 billion marketing gambit rather than a legitimate sporting crown.

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