The first-ever FIFA Club World Cup with 32 teams is now underway. While Lionel Messi will kick off the tournament by leading Inter Miami against Al Ahly this Saturday at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, one notable absence stands out: FC Barcelona.

The Catalan club, left out of the elite group of qualified teams, not only misses a shot at international glory but also loses access to the massive financial windfall this tournament offers—$1 billion in total prize money. According to FIFA, the tournament winner could take home up to $125 million, while participants are guaranteed between $9 million and $38 million just for competing.

For a club like Barcelona, currently navigating financial challenges, participating in this event would have brought in crucial revenue. As a European representative alone, Barça could have secured between $12.8 million and $38 million, depending on performance and commercial standing. At this point, those figures feel like a missed opportunity at Camp Nou.

Messi ready to take on the Club World Cup

Meanwhile, the tournament begins with Argentine star Leo Messi as the central figure of the opening match. The World Cup champion leads Inter Miami, who qualified by winning the 2024 MLS Supporters’ Shield. At 37 years old, Messi enters the tournament in top form, with 10 goals and 6 assists in just 13 MLS matches. He was also named the Player of the Month by the league.

Javier Mascherano’s squad also features stars like Luis Suárez, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba, and will aim to surprise in a tough group alongside Palmeiras and Porto.

Their first opponent, Al Ahly, is one of Africa’s football powerhouses, boasting 12 CAF Champions League titles. They arrive at the Club World Cup under the guidance of Spanish coach José Riveiro.

While the world’s attention shifts to Miami and the most lucrative tournament in club football history, Barcelona will be watching from the sidelines—counting the millions they won’t be earning.