UEFA approves historic La Liga and Serie A matches to be played outside Europe

In a groundbreaking move, UEFA has granted approval for two domestic league matches—one from La Liga and one from Serie A—to be held outside their home countries. This decision marks a significant shift in European football’s approach to international fixtures.

Villarreal vs Barcelona in Miami

La Liga’s fixture between Villarreal and Barcelona is set to take place at Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium on December 21, 2025. This will be the first official Spanish league match ever played outside Europe. The match aims to expand La Liga’s global footprint, aligning with the league’s long-term strategy to increase its international presence. 

AC Milan vs Como in Perth

In Serie A, AC Milan is scheduled to face Como at Optus Stadium in Perth, Australia, on February 8, 2026. This relocation is due to San Siro’s unavailability, as it will be hosting the Winter Olympics opening ceremony. The move is seen as an opportunity to engage with the growing football fanbase in the Asia-Pacific region. 

UEFA’s Reluctant Approval

UEFA President Aleksander Čeferin emphasized that this approval is an exception and should not set a precedent. He stated, “League matches should be played at home; anything else would deprive loyal fans of their rights and could distort competitions.” UEFA’s decision was influenced by the current lack of clear FIFA regulations on the matter. 

Fan Reactions and Future Implications

The decision has sparked debate among fans and stakeholders. While some view it as a positive step towards globalising the sport, others express concerns about the potential alienation of local supporters. UEFA has committed to working with FIFA to ensure that future rules uphold the integrity of domestic competitions and the connection between clubs and their communities. 

As European football continues to explore international opportunities, these matches will serve as a test case for the viability and impact of hosting domestic league games abroad.