UEFA approves LaLiga & Serie A games to be held abroad

UEFA has approved that these league games can be played abroad.

UEFA has given the green light for LaLiga and Serie A games to be played abroad. President Aleksander Ceferin says the ”disappointing” decision allowing European league games to be held abroad is “exceptional” and insists it “will not set a precedent”.

LaLiga match between Barcelona and Villarreal will take place in the USA, in Miami, in December. It will be the first European league game to be played abroad.

UEFA confirms European games to be played abroad

Then, in February 2026, a Serie A game between AC Milan and Como will be played in Perth, Australia. Although UEFA was opposing the decision, but was “reluctant” to approve them due to the failure to find a legal framework to stop it.

“League matches should be played on home soil; anything else would disenfranchise loyal match-going fans and potentially introduce distortive elements in competitions,” said Ceferin.

“Our consultation confirmed the breadth of these concerns. I would like to thank the 55 national associations for their constructive and responsible engagement on such a sensitive issue.

“While it is regrettable to have to let these two games go ahead, this decision is exceptional and shall not be seen as setting a precedent. Our commitment is clear: to protect the integrity of national leagues and ensure that football remains anchored in its home environment.”

Football fans’ support group criticises the decision

Fans’ group Football Supporters Europe (FSE) have stressed that the decision to play European games abroad will leave a lasting dent on the sport and reiterated that it should not happen in future.

“FSE will continue to stand firmly with fans in Spain and Italy in resisting these damaging proposals,” it said. “Together with our members in these countries, we are looking into every possible option to counter these plans.”

“By forcing through these matches, La Liga and Serie A risk undermining their own history and long-term success while inflicting long-lasting harm to football in Europe – and beyond. Now is the time for a solid regulatory framework that protects domestic competition.”

Furthermore, UEFA disclosed that it consulted stakeholders, but found “widespread lack of support” for league matches to be held outside the continent, stressing concerns raised by fans, other leagues, clubs, players and European institutions.

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