Barcelona’s International Match Plans Halted Amid Growing Opposition
Barcelona’s players celebrate during a Champions League match. Image credit: Joan Monfort/AP
Plans for Miami Match Canceled
In a surprising turn of events, the Spanish soccer league announced that the anticipated match between Barcelona and Villarreal, scheduled to take place in Miami this December, has been canceled. This decision follows a surge of domestic opposition.
After discussions with the event promoter, Relevent, the league cited “recent uncertainties in Spain” as a key reason for the postponement of the December 20 match.
Challenges in Execution
Relevent expressed concerns about the feasibility of organizing such a large-scale event within the available timeframe. They emphasized the impracticality of selling tickets without a confirmed match.
Despite receiving approval from major soccer organizations like UEFA, the plan faced increasing resistance from players, clubs, and fans within Spain.
Impact on Spanish Soccer’s Global Reach
The league expressed disappointment over the missed opportunity to expand Spanish soccer’s global footprint. They believed that hosting an official match abroad would have significantly boosted the international presence of Spanish clubs and players.
According to the league, the initiative complied with all relevant regulations and did not compromise the competition’s integrity, though it faced opposition for other reasons.
Player and Club Reactions
Protests against the match grew, with players demonstrating during league games by pausing briefly after kickoff. Real Madrid’s goalkeeper, Thibaut Courtois, criticized the league’s president, Javier Tebas, for censoring these protests.
Real Madrid has been vocal in its opposition, arguing that the match would disrupt the competition’s fairness. Villarreal was designated as the home team for the Miami game.
Barcelona and Villarreal’s Stance
Both Barcelona and Villarreal were supportive of the international match. Villarreal fans were offered free travel to the game, with discounts on season tickets for those opting out.
Barcelona acknowledged the decision but lamented the lost chance to enhance the league’s image in a promising market like the United States.
Future Prospects for La Liga
La Liga emphasized the importance of such initiatives in a competitive global sports landscape. They argued that declining these opportunities limits revenue generation and hampers the league’s international growth.
The league remains committed to promoting Spanish soccer worldwide, aiming to foster a modern and competitive environment that benefits all stakeholders.
La Liga’s partnership with Relevent Sports, part of Stephen Ross’ business portfolio, underscores their long-term vision for international expansion.
Plans for the Miami match were revisited after FIFA withdrew from a legal case involving Relevent, with FIFA later announcing a review of its regulations.
