Spanish Federation Approves Plan to Move Villarreal-Barcelona Match to Miami

The Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) has approved a request to move the La Liga match between Villarreal and Barcelona to Miami, potentially making it the first official European league match played in the United States. Originally scheduled for December 21 at Villarreal's Estadio de la Cerámica, the fixture is proposed to be held at Miami's Hard Rock Stadium on December 20, subject to approval from UEFA and FIFA. This move follows the dismissal of a lawsuit by Relevent Sports, a U.S.-based promoter owned by Miami Dolphins' owner Stephen Ross, which had previously challenged FIFA's ban on domestic league games being played outside their home territory. The match relocation marks a significant milestone for La Liga's ambition to expand its international presence, especially in the U.S. market, a plan that had faced opposition and legal hurdles in the past. With leadership changes at the Spanish federation and renewed cooperation, the Miami match could herald a new era of overseas La Liga fixtures, coinciding with preparations for Hard Rock Stadium hosting matches in the 2026 World Cup. The final authorization from FIFA remains the last step before the match is officially confirmed.