La Liga's Miami Match Proposal Sparks Controversy with EU Commissioner
EU Sports Commissioner Glenn Micallef criticizes La Liga's plan to stage regular season matches in Miami, calling it a 'betrayal of fans'. Villarreal and Barcelona are among the clubs proposing the move.
“Taking a match abroad does not mean exporting the championship, but rather introducing new audiences to...”
Serie A has responded strongly to criticism from European Union Commissioner Glenn Micallef, who expressed disappointment over the planned match between AC Milan and Como in Perth, Australia. The Italian league described Micallef's comments as “excessive,” arguing that hosting one game abroad doesn't undermine European football but rather promotes Italian football globally. They believe this move will increase visibility and popularity for the league worldwide, with only a minimal impact on the fans of Milan and Como.
Key Points:
- Match Details: AC Milan vs Como in Perth, Australia, scheduled for February next year
- Approval Pending: UEFA and FIFA's approval still required for the match.
- Commissioner's Criticism: Micallef views the move as a “betrayal” of fans, sparking controversy
- Serie A's Response: Hosting one match abroad promotes Italian football globally without undermining its European roots
LaLiga's President, Javier Tebas, shares a similar perspective, emphasizing that there's a significant fan base globally who deserve to see their teams play live. He points out that one match out of 380 shouldn't be a cause for alarm, especially considering other potential disruptors like the NBA-FIBA European league. Both Serie A and LaLiga are pushing forward with their plans, awaiting final approval from governing bodies.
EU Sports Commissioner Glenn Micallef has voiced strong opposition to the proposal of staging regular season La Liga matches in Miami, describing it as a “betrayal of the fans.” This move, backed by Spanish clubs Villarreal and Barcelona, has sparked controversy among football enthusiasts and stakeholders.
1/ I’m deeply disappointed by proposals to stage domestic league matches outside Europe.
— Glenn Micallef (@GlennMicallef) August 27, 2025
Concerns about the European Sport Model
Micallef's statement reflects his commitment to preserving the integrity and values of European sports. As Commissioner for Intergenerational Fairness, Youth, Culture, and Sport, he emphasizes the importance of adhering to the principles of solidarity, openness, and sporting merit that underpin the European Sport Model.
Potential Impact on Fans and the Sport
The proposal to host La Liga matches in Miami raises questions about the potential impact on fans, clubs, and the sport as a whole. Micallef's concerns likely stem from the potential consequences of deviating from traditional formats and the possible effects on the sport's cultural and competitive fabric.
Preserving the Essence of European Football
By speaking out against this proposal, Micallef aims to protect the essence of European football, prioritizing the interests of fans and the sport's core values. His stance highlights the need for careful consideration and dialogue among stakeholders to ensure that any decisions align with the sport's fundamental principles.
“I'm deeply disappointed by proposals to stage domestic league matches outside Europe,” the Maltese official wrote in a thread on social media platform X on Wednesday.
“To me it's clear: European competitions must be played in Europe. European football must stay in Europe.
“I believe that clubs owe most of their success to their loyal fans & local communities ... moving competitions abroad isn't innovation, it's betrayal.”
Serie A expressed strong disagreement with EU Commissioner Glenn Micallef's criticism, stating they were "astonished" by his remarks. According to Serie A, Micallef underestimated the strategic value and complexity of promoting Italian football globally through initiatives like hosting a match in Australia. Serie A believes these efforts will enhance the league's global visibility and appeal.
Serie A's Perspective:
Global Promotion: Hosting international matches is part of Serie A's strategy to increase its global footprint and attract new fans.
Strategic Value: Serie A sees these initiatives as crucial for the league's growth and competitiveness in the international market.
Response to Criticism: Serie A stands firm in its decision, emphasizing the benefits of global promotion and the positive impact on Italian football.
“To speak of betrayal for a single match, out of a total of 380 Serie A matches, seems an excessive position, which risks fuelling a populist debate,” the statement continued.
“Taking a match abroad does not mean exporting the championship, but rather introducing new audiences to the excellence of Italian football.
“In return for a small sacrifice required of the Milan and Como fans, (they) will ... benefit in terms of increased visibility and popularity worldwide.”
No comments:
Leave comment here