Table of Contents
- UEFA's Opposition to Domestic Games Abroad
- Clubs Traveling Outside Europe
- Exceptional Approval for Matches
- Commitment to Integrity of Domestic Competitions
- Response from Fan Groups
UEFA officials are determined to prevent clubs from hosting domestic matches in foreign countries.
However, they currently lack the authority to stop clubs from leaving Europe this season.
Yamal’s Barcelona will be participating in a La Liga match outside of Spain.
AC Milan and Luka Modric are set to travel to Australia to face Como.
In a move that could hinder UEFA's authority, President Aleksander Ceferin has openly expressed his strong personal disapproval of this idea.
This comes despite granting approval in December for Milan to compete against Como in Perth in February.
UEFA clarified that its ruling executive committee had “reluctantly decided to approve, on an exceptional basis,” the requests from Spain and Italy, pointing to a lack of regulations preventing the relocation of these matches.
Nevertheless, UEFA officials have pledged to collaborate with FIFA to “maintain the integrity of domestic competitions and the strong connection between clubs, their supporters, and local communities.”
Ceferin stated: “League matches should be held on home turf.”
“While it is unfortunate to allow these two matches to proceed, this decision is an exception and should not be viewed as establishing a precedent.
“Our commitment is clear – to safeguard the integrity of national leagues and ensure that football remains rooted in its local context.”
Premier League chief Richard Masters has voiced his complete opposition to the idea of English games being played abroad.
However, this stance could change if 14 out of 20 top-flight clubs decide to pursue the option.
The fan group Football Supporters Europe expressed: “We regret the decision to permit these requests, but all 55 national associations have pledged not to make further requests for domestic matches abroad without first consulting UEFA.”
“The responsibility now lies with FIFA to address this regulatory gap. We appreciate UEFA’s commitment to collaborate with FIFA to ensure that future regulations uphold the integrity of domestic competitions.”
Ceferin is opposed to more domestic games in Europe being played in other countries.
Why does UEFA oppose domestic games being played abroad?
UEFA aims to maintain the integrity of domestic competitions and ensure that football remains connected to local communities.
What recent decisions have been made regarding clubs playing abroad?
UEFA has reluctantly approved exceptional requests from clubs in Spain and Italy to play matches abroad, specifically allowing AC Milan to face Como in Perth.
What is the stance of fan groups on this issue?
Fan group Football Supporters Europe has expressed regret over the decision to allow matches abroad but supports UEFA's commitment to consult with FIFA before any future requests.
