LaLiga has officially confirmed that Barcelona will face Villarreal on December 20th at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami. This announcement comes shortly after UEFA, despite its stated reservations, reluctantly gave its approval for both LaLiga and Italy`s Serie A to host two league fixtures outside their home countries later this season.
FC Barcelona president Joan Laporta expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming fixture, stating:
“We are eager to reunite with our fans in the United States once more, and we appreciate LaLiga for enabling us to connect with one of the club`s vital strategic markets. Having visited the country for many years, we`ve consistently experienced the passion FC Barcelona ignites.”
Laporta further emphasized the club`s global commitment: “As a global club with millions of supporters worldwide, this chance strengthens our dedication to international fans, particularly in a crucial market like the U.S. An official match in Miami, home to a significant culé community, promises to be a spectacular event showcasing two top-tier teams.”
Meanwhile, Italy`s Serie A is expected to confirm a match between AC Milan and Como in Perth, Australia, scheduled for February.
UEFA`s Stance and Reluctant Approval
In a statement, UEFA reiterated its firm stance against domestic league games being held outside their home territories. Following its Executive Committee meeting in Tirana last month, UEFA consulted various stakeholders regarding applications from Spanish and Italian football associations. These consultations reinforced the significant opposition from fans, other leagues, clubs, players, and European institutions to the idea of relocating domestic league matches internationally.
Despite this opposition, UEFA`s Executive Committee “reluctantly approved” the two requests on an “exceptional basis,” citing that FIFA`s current regulatory framework on the matter is “not clear and detailed enough.” UEFA pledged to work with FIFA to develop future regulations that protect the integrity of domestic competitions and the vital connection between clubs, fans, and local communities. Additionally, all UEFA national associations committed to consulting with UEFA before making any future requests, collectively aiming to protect European football`s broader interests.
UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin emphasized:
“League matches belong on home soil; any deviation would alienate loyal fans and potentially distort competition integrity. Our consultations affirmed the extensive nature of these concerns.”
He thanked the 55 national associations for their constructive engagement. Ceferin concluded: “While it is regrettable to permit these two games, this decision is exceptional and should not establish a precedent. Our commitment is unequivocal: to safeguard the integrity of national leagues and ensure football remains rooted in its home environment.”
The AC Milan vs. Como fixture in Perth on February 6th is necessitated by the San Siro stadium`s commitment to host the opening ceremony of the 2026 Winter Olympic Games. The Barcelona vs. Villarreal match in Miami, set for December (exact date pending), will mark a historic first, as these will be the inaugural LaLiga and Serie A games played outside of Spain and Italy, respectively.
