La Liga abroad potential move gets green light from federation

The move could make the December fixture the first European league game hosted abroad, pending FIFA and UEFA approval.

Spanish FA approves Villarreal Barcelona match in Miami

The Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) board approved Villarreal CF and FC Barcelona’s request to relocate the La Liga match from Estadio de la Ceramica to Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, with formal permission to come from FIFA and UEFA. The stadium is slated to host seven matches at the 2026 World Cup, and the plan will follow the standard approvals process before any game can be moved to the United States. The match is currently scheduled for December 21, with the new date and venue still to be confirmed by international football authorities.

If cleared, the fixture would mark the first European league game played outside Europe, signaling a bold shift in how football markets games. Proponents argue international exposure can boost sponsorship and reach, but critics warn of disconnect with local fans and the logistical burden on players. The decision also spotlights governance, calendar integrity, and the risk of setting a precedent that other leagues may follow.

Highlights

A careful path forward will be needed to balance global ambition with the realities on the ground