Club World Cup shake-up as Rio government bankrolls fan houses in the US | OneFootball

Flamengo, along with Botafogo and Fluminense, will receive sponsorship from the Rio de Janeiro state government for their participation in the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup in the United States. The initiative, organized through the state’s tourism secretariat, is a first-of-its-kind move aiming to boost Rio’s international profile during the tournament, scheduled from 14 June to 13 July.

Each club is set to receive R$1 million in funding. Rather than going directly to football operations, the funds will support official “club houses” established in major U.S. cities. Flamengo’s base will be in Orlando, while Botafogo and Fluminense will operate their houses in Los Angeles, New York, and Miami, respectively. These spaces are designed to serve as hubs for fans, sponsors, and media, amplifying visibility for both the clubs and Rio as a tourist destination.

An official announcement outlining the details of the partnership is expected to take place at a press conference tomorrow, with club and government representatives in attendance. The precise venue and time are yet to be disclosed.

The move is part of a broader strategy to leverage the global audience of the Club World Cup, positioning Rio de Janeiro more prominently on the international tourism map by tapping into the appeal of its leading teams. The government’s statement emphasized the intent to use the clubs’ reach to “position Rio de Janeiro as a key destination for strategic audiences abroad.”

The sponsorship has already stirred public debate, however, with critics questioning the allocation of public funds while pointing to other pressing needs in the region. Online commentary in response to the announcement included calls for greater investment in public services such as healthcare and security. For Flamengo and their counterparts, though, the sponsorship arrives at a significant moment as preparations intensify for the expanded Club World Cup.

Source: UOL