Madrid Opposes La Liga Game in the U.S., Villarreal Looks Forward to Opportunity
In Madrid on August 13, Real Madrid formally declared its strong opposition to the idea of a Spanish La Liga match being played in the United States. The club warned that such a move could represent "a turning point in the world of football." In stark contrast, Villarreal expressed enthusiasm for the opportunity, promising complimentary travel and match tickets for its season-ticket holders if the scheduled game against Barcelona in Miami is approved. This match, slated for round 17 of La Liga, would be hosted at the Hard Rock Stadium.
Real Madrid's Stand Against the U.S. Match
Real Madrid issued a statement on Tuesday, actively challenging the December 20 match from taking place in the U.S. The club argues that it would compromise the "integrity of the competition" and the "legitimacy of the results." The club criticized the decision as being made without the necessary consultation with involved clubs. Madrid believes this infringes on "territorial reciprocity," which is essential for maintaining competitive balance in two-legged league formats. The club stressed that such a precedent would give undue sporting advantages to select clubs, adversely affecting sporting integrity.
According to Madrid, executing this plan would have serious implications and could signal a significant shift in world football, potentially opening the door to future non-sporting exceptions.
Fan Groups and FIFA Involvement
Football Supporters Europe (FSE), a pan-European fan organization, has echoed Real Madrid's concerns. They are coordinating efforts with other fan groups, stakeholders, and partners to collectively oppose this potential change. FSE underscores that moving games outside domestic territories fundamentally disrupts the bond between clubs and their communities.
Parallel to these tensions, the Italian league plans to hold a Serie A match between AC Milan and Como in Perth, Australia, in February.
In its efforts to halt the U.S. match, Madrid has contacted FIFA, UEFA, and Spain's top sports body to deny authorization. Although the Spanish soccer federation has already approved the Miami match, UEFA and FIFA need to give their consent for the match to proceed.
Real Madrid stressed that any changes of this nature require the unanimous agreement of all clubs involved in the competition, as well as strict adherence to national and international regulations.
Villarreal's Enthusiasm for Expanding Its Brand
On Tuesday, Villarreal announced that if the U.S. match proceeds, it will offer free travel and match tickets to season ticket-holders. For those unable or unwilling to travel, the club promises a 20% discount on their season tickets. Villarreal's president, Fernando Roig, expressed excitement about being the first Spanish team to play a league match abroad, citing the U.S. as a vital market for expanding their brand.
La Liga's long-standing ambition to promote soccer and its brand globally aligns with these efforts. An attempt to hold a match in the U.S. in 2018 between Barcelona and Girona failed, but La Liga has continued its pursuit.
The league is in partnership with Relevent Sports, a sports and entertainment group associated with the Hard Rock Stadium, Miami Dolphins, Miami Grand Prix, and Miami Open tennis tournament.
This year, Relevent Sports obtained exclusive global commercial rights to UEFA men's club competitions between 2027-2033.
Industry and Fan Reactions
Despite endorsements from some soccer executives, many Spanish fans and the country's players association remain opposed to relocating a match so far from home. While leagues such as those in the U.S. have routinely held games in international locations as a means of boosting their global brand, the prospect is still controversial in the world of football.
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