FIFA faces fresh criticism in the United States after revealing Inter Miami will play in the Club World Cup. Gianni Infantino confirmed over the weekend that they would be one of the 32 teams in the tournament, which will take place in Stateside next summer.
Despite failing to detail its selection criteria beforehand, FIFA has confirmed that the MLS franchise's involvement is as a host nation.
Their inclusion in the tournament has been officially justified as a reward for claiming the Supporters' Shield, the MLS trophy given for having the best regular season record.
Lionel Messi and Co set a new league record with 74 points to top the table. READ MORE: Beckham makes Messi adhere to strict Inter Miami dress code READ MORE: Messi's 'wonderful' Inter Miami message as Beckham's side smash MLS records However, they must win the play-offs before becoming MLS champions.