FIFA Initiates Review to Permit La Liga and EPL Matches in Overseas Markets
In a significant move, FIFA has taken steps toward reconsidering its longstanding policy that prohibits domestic league matches from being played in other countries. The decision came following a meeting of the soccer body's council in Bangkok on Wednesday, where a working group was established to examine the feasibility of allowing so-called "out-of-territory" games.
The current policy, which has been in place for decades, has faced criticism from various stakeholders, including international club owners and promoters. While the practice of staging games in foreign markets is common in other professional sports leagues, such as those in the United States, it remains contentious in the realm of soccer.
Former England and Barcelona striker Gary Lineker was among the voices opposing the potential shift, stating emphatically on social media, "No. No. No."
Potential host countries for these matches include the United States and Saudi Arabia, both of which have expressed interest in hosting competitive games from top European leagues. FIFA's decision to withdraw from a legal case in New York, initiated by promoter Relevent challenging the prohibition on organizing such matches, underscores the shifting landscape.
The move is expected to appeal to international owners of European clubs, particularly those from the United States, as well as state-backed entities such as Manchester City, Paris Saint-Germain, and Newcastle United.
The creation of a working group signals FIFA's intent to revisit its existing regulations on out-of-territory games, with a panel comprising 10-15 representatives from various soccer stakeholders set to advise on potential amendments within months.
While previous attempts to stage European league games abroad, including a proposed fixture between Barcelona and Miami in 2019, were met with resistance, FIFA's directive aims to address concerns related to fairness, fan engagement, and the integrity of domestic competitions.
Key considerations for the panel include obtaining consent from relevant federations and confederations, as well as minimizing disruption to fans, teams, and leagues in the host country. Additionally, the review process will prioritize respecting the established structure of international football while ensuring transparency and accountability.
The potential expansion of domestic league matches into overseas markets represents a significant departure from tradition and is likely to spark debate among fans, clubs, and governing bodies alike. With England and Germany home to particularly vocal fan bases known for their activism, any proposed changes will face scrutiny and rigorous evaluation.
