UEFA has postponed its decision on whether European domestic league matches can be staged overseas, confirming it will consult fans and other stakeholders before making a final ruling.
The governing body’s executive committee reviewed applications for Villarreal v Barcelona in LaLiga to be played in Miami this December and for AC Milan v Como in Serie A to be staged in Perth, Australia, next February, during its meeting in Tirana on 11 September.
However, UEFA announced it would “undertake a round of consultation with all stakeholders in European football, including fans” before any verdict is reached.
Supporters’ groups have consistently voiced strong opposition to the proposals, branding them the most serious governance controversy since the failed launch of the European Super League in 2021.
In a statement, UEFA said, “The committee acknowledged it as an important and growing issue but expressed the desire to ensure that it has the views of all stakeholders before coming to a final decision.
“There are many issues to resolve, and as the European governing body, UEFA has a responsibility to take all such factors into account.”
Football Supporters Europe (FSE) welcomed the move, stressing the importance of meaningful engagement with fans.
“Today’s announcement reflects UEFA’s dedication to preserving the integrity of European football,” FSE said.
“The specific mention for fans to be involved in this engagement demonstrates that UEFA has recognised the strong opposition expressed by millions of supporters across the continent, as well as those of the many other stakeholders who have spoken out against these plans.
“FSE would like to thank every supporters’ group across Europe who co-signed our statement opposing these proposals, your voice has made a real difference.
“Our position remains unchanged: European football belongs to our stadiums, our cities, our communities, one domestic match abroad is one too many.
“FSE remains committed to constructive dialogue with UEFA, European institutions, and other stakeholders to protect and strengthen the European sport model and to ensure a robust framework is in place to resist any attempts to take domestic league games abroad.”
LaLiga and Serie A have previously argued that staging fixtures abroad would enhance global visibility for their competitions. Both leagues have secured consent from their national federations but must receive UEFA approval before seeking final clearance from FIFA. LaLiga declined to comment on UEFA’s announcement.
The Premier League has reiterated that it has no intention of holding matches outside England. The prospect of overseas domestic games re-emerged after the settlement of a legal case between sports agency Relevent and FIFA in April 2023. Following the settlement, FIFA announced the creation of a working group to explore a “revised legal framework” for staging domestic matches beyond national borders.
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