UEFA Approves Barcelona, Milan Matches Abroad

UEFA has approved two domestic league matches to be played abroad: Barcelona vs. Villarreal in Miami in late December (reported Dec. 20) and AC Milan vs. Como in Perth in February. The governing body said the approvals are exceptional, not precedent-setting, and reiterated its opposition in principle to moving domestic fixtures overseas. Milan’s fixture was moved because the San Siro will be unavailable while Milan hosts the Winter Olympics opening ceremony, and LaLiga’s transatlantic strategy provides context for the Miami match. UEFA said it found no clear FIFA regulatory framework that would allow it to block the requests and will work with FIFA to develop clearer rules to protect national leagues' integrity. Supporters, clubs, players and European institutions strongly opposed the moves, warning they could disenfranchise home fans, distort competitions and be environmentally irresponsible.