FIFA announced the exclusion of Club Leon from the 2025 Club World Cup due to non-compliance with multi-ownership rules, which prevent two clubs belonging to the same group from competing in the competition.
The decision comes after disciplinary proceedings were opened against Club Leon and Pachuca, both belonging to the Pachuca Group. The case was referred directly to the FIFA Appeals Committee.
After analysing the evidence, the chairman of the Appeals Committee concluded that the two clubs did not meet the multiple ownership criteria laid down in Article 10, paragraph 1, of the tournament regulations. As a result, FIFA ruled Club Leon out.
The same body confirmed that the vacant place will be filled by another club that will be announced shortly.
Club Leon was part of Group D, which included Chelsea, Flamengo and Esperance de Tunis.