After their heroic Champions League win last season, the Blues were set to fly out to Japan later this year to take part in the Club World Championship – but it has now been confirmed that won’t be happening.
The tournament, normally held in December, sees clubs from across the world who have won their region’s equivalent of the Champions League battle it out for ultimate bragging rights.
But now, FIFA have said the tournament will no longer be held in Japan after the country reported a rise in the number of coronavirus cases.
FIFA can confirm that it has been informed today by the Japan Football Association (JFA) that, due to the COVID-19 pandemic and hosting situation in the country, they are no longer in a position to host the FIFA Club World Cup 2021.
“FIFA would like to thank the JFA for their work and commitment and looks forward to going back to Japan in the future. Further details about an alternative host for the FIFA Club World Cup 2021 will be announced by FIFA in due course.”
Chelsea are due to compete having won the Champions League, and are one of three currently qualified teams. Also already qualified are Egyptian side Al Ahly and Auckland City, of New Zealand.
DOHA, QATAR – FEBRUARY 11: Manuel Neuer of FC Bayern Muenchen lifts the FIFA Club World Cup Qatar 2020 trophy as FC Bayern Muenchen celebrate after winning the FIFA Club World Cup Qatar 2020 Final between FC Bayern Muenchen and Tigres UANL at the Education City Stadium on February 11, 2021 in Doha, Qatar. (Photo by Fadi El Assaad – FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)