LaLiga and Serie A Receive UEFA Approval for International Matches: Barcelona vs. Villarreal in Miami and AC Milan vs. Como in Perth
LaLiga and Serie A have received approval from UEFA to play two league matches abroad this season. LaLiga has officially announced the Barcelona vs. Villarreal match on Dec. 20 at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami. Barcelona president Joan Laporta expressed excitement about the opportunity to connect with fans in the U.S. AC Milan is also set to play Como in Perth, Australia, in February, pending confirmation from Serie A.
UEFA has expressed its opposition to domestic league matches being played outside their home country but reluctantly approved the requests from LaLiga and Serie A due to unclear FIFA regulations. UEFA emphasized the importance of maintaining the integrity of domestic competitions and the bond between clubs, fans, and local communities. UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin stressed the significance of playing league matches on home soil to preserve the interests of loyal fans and the competitive balance of competitions.
The decision to allow the Barcelona vs. Villarreal and AC Milan vs. Como matches to be played abroad is considered exceptional and not a precedent-setting move. AC Milan's match in Perth is due to their home stadium hosting the 2026 Winter Olympic Games opening ceremony, while Barcelona's match in Miami will mark the first LaLiga and Serie A games played outside their respective countries. The dates for the matches will be confirmed later.