BREAKING: UEFA Set To Approve Serie A, LaLiga Matches To Hold In US, Australia

BREAKING: UEFA Set To Approve Serie A, LaLiga Matches To Hold In US, Australia

UEFA has given the green light for a La Liga and a Serie A match to be held outside Europe — in the United States and Australia respectively despite widespread backlash from fans.

Under the decision, Barcelona will face Villarreal in Miami this December, while AC Milan will take on Como in Perth, Australia, in February.

Fan organisations and supporters’ groups have fiercely opposed the idea of moving domestic league fixtures abroad, arguing it disrespects local fans and compromises the integrity of national competitions.

In a statement on Monday, UEFA acknowledged the controversy but described the approvals as “exceptional” cases, stressing that they should not be viewed as setting a precedent.

The statement signed by UEFA’s president, Aleksander Ceferin, read, “League matches should be played on home soil; anything else would disenfranchise loyal match-going fans and potentially introduce distortive elements in competitions. Our consultation confirmed the breadth of these concerns.

“I would like to thank the 55 national associations for their constructive and responsible engagement on such a sensitive issue.

“While it is regrettable to have to let these two games go ahead, this decision is exceptional and shall not be seen as setting a precedent. Our commitment is clear: to protect the integrity of national leagues and ensure that football remains anchored in its home environment.”

The move follows formal requests from the Spanish and Italian football federations to host the matches overseas.

UEFA added that all national associations must now consult with it before making any similar applications in the future.

The governing body had postponed its ruling last month, noting that its broader consultation revealed little support for exporting domestic games.