UEFA approves La Liga, Serie A matches outside Europe amid fan backlash

In a groundbreaking yet controversial move, the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) has given the green light for a Spanish La Liga and an Italian Serie A match to be played outside Europe a decision that has sparked outrage among supporters.

According to UEFA’s announcement on Monday, Barcelona will face Villarreal in Miami, USA, this December, while AC Milan will take on Como in Perth, Australia, in February 2026. The approval marks the first time in history that official league matches from Europe’s top divisions will be held on other continents.

However, the decision has not gone down well with football fans and supporters’ groups, who argue that exporting domestic fixtures undermines local supporters, devalues season tickets, and erodes the cultural and competitive integrity of national leagues.

Fan associations across Spain and Italy have expressed disappointment, describing the move as a step toward the “commercialisation” of the sport at the expense of loyal fans who have long supported their clubs from home grounds.

Responding to the backlash, UEFA admitted the concerns were valid but maintained that the approvals were “exceptional” and “should not be interpreted as setting a precedent for future matches.”

Despite UEFA’s assurances, football purists fear this could open the door for more leagues to explore overseas fixtures, further shifting the balance between football’s commercial interests and its deep-rooted local traditions.