Overview

• Barcelona vs. Villarreal is expected to be staged in Miami in December and AC Milan vs. Como in Perth in February, marking the first European league fixtures played outside their home countries.
• UEFA called the approvals exceptional and reiterated its opposition to exporting domestic league games, stressing the move must not set a precedent.
• Final authorization now rests with FIFA, whose regulatory framework on out‑of‑territory domestic matches is under review.
• Football Supporters Europe and other stakeholders condemned the relocations, warning of long‑term harm to competitive integrity and fans’ rights.
• Milan sought a foreign venue because San Siro will be unavailable during preparations for the 2026 Winter Olympics opening, and UEFA says national associations will consult it before any future requests.