UEFA Bends, but Doesn’t Change Its Stance

UEFA has officially approved the Villarreal vs FC Barcelona match scheduled for December 20 in Miami, a historic decision that marks a turning point in European football.
However, the governing body made it clear that the measure was taken “reluctantly” and as an exceptional case, reaffirming its position that domestic league matches must be played in their home countries.

Following the Executive Committee meeting held last month in Tirana, UEFA conducted further consultations with the relevant federations. Both Spain, for the Villarreal-Barça match, and Italy, for the proposed Milan-Como fixture on February 6 in Perth, requested permission to host league games abroad.

An Exception Under Review

UEFA admitted that its consultations revealed widespread opposition among its 55 member federations to hosting domestic matches outside Europe. However, since the current FIFA regulations—still under review—lack clarity, UEFA decided to approve both requests “reluctantly.”

In the official statement, UEFA President Aleksander Čeferin said:

“League matches should be played at home; anything else would deprive loyal fans of their rights and could distort competitions. Although it’s regrettable to allow these two matches, this decision is exceptional and should not be seen as a precedent.”

UEFA also confirmed that all national federations have committed to consulting with UEFA before submitting similar requests in the future.

Miami and Perth: The Test Grounds

With the approval of Villarreal-Barça in Miami and Milan-Como in Perth, European football enters a new era of global experimentation. UEFA will work with FIFA to set stricter guidelines ensuring that leagues maintain their integrity and connection with local communities.

On December 20, LaLiga will make history — it will be the first official Spanish league match ever played outside Europe.