UEFA accused of 'commercializing' European football

UEFA is accused of “commercializing” European football following its approval for La Liga and Serie A to host official games overseas, provoking anger among supporters.

The Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) is under intense criticism after permitting La Liga and Serie A to stage two official matches at neutral venues outside their home countries, contradicting the organization’s previously stated stance against “globalizing domestic leagues.”

According to the recently announced decision, the Villarreal vs. Barcelona match will take place in Miami, USA, on December 21, while the AC Milan vs. Como game is scheduled for Perth, Australia, on February 8, 2025. Although UEFA admitted to reluctantly approving these requests, the move has triggered strong backlash from fans and clubs alike.

UEFA stated that it consulted with fans, players, leagues, and governing bodies, most of whom strongly opposed taking domestic matches overseas. However, the organization argued that FIFA’s current legal framework is unclear, forcing UEFA to approve these cases as exceptions. FIFA will have the final say on whether matches can be held at neutral venues.

UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin expressed dissatisfaction with the decision, emphasizing that playing abroad deprives loyal fans of their rights and “distorts” the fairness of the competition.

“Domestic matches must be played at home. Any exception undermines the bond between clubs and their local communities. This decision is temporary and should not be considered a precedent,” Ceferin affirmed.

Social media reactions reveal widespread anger. Many fans accuse UEFA of being “weak and driven by commercial interests.” One user commented: “This is how football turns into a global circus, good for marketing but destroying the soul of the game.”

Experts warn that if FIFA also approves, this decision could pave the way for other leagues, including the Premier League, to hold official matches abroad to increase revenue. This risks European football losing its local identity, turning traditional matches into tools for global commercialization.