On Thursday, UEFA announced it will not make a definitive decision regarding overseas league fixtures, a topic that has been widely anticipated in the football community. Instead, the UEFA executive committee has chosen to engage in consultations, including feedback from supporters. This approach raises questions about the timing and necessity of these discussions, especially as the debate over international league fixtures gained prominence following a 2019 legal challenge by promoter Relevent against the U.S. Soccer Federation. The focus has intensified with La Liga proposing a match between Barcelona and Villarreal in Miami later this year.
The recent announcement has been perceived as a departure from FIFA’s approach to developing the Club World Cup, a project that has faced legal disputes and criticism for a lack of consultation with competition organizers. FIFA’s initiatives have led to substantial payouts for clubs, yet the organization has been accused of prioritizing individual agendas.
UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin had indicated the organization’s desire for discussions regarding overseas fixtures, emphasizing the importance of considering fan perspectives. He acknowledged potential legal constraints but affirmed the need for a comprehensive dialogue involving all federations, including FIFA.
UEFA’s decision to defer action and seek dialogue may align with its long-term interests, particularly in a competitive landscape where governance structures in football are evolving. Changes to the international calendar or the introduction of a biennial Club World Cup could impact UEFA’s existing tournaments, such as the Champions League.
Recently, Glenn Micallef, the European Commissioner for sports, expressed support for UEFA’s decision to seek consultation, highlighting its responsible approach. The European Commission is increasingly involved in safeguarding the “European Sports Model,” which promotes competitiveness alongside financial support within the sport. The outcomes of these discussions could potentially shape the future framework of football governance in Europe.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/football/2025/sep/14/uefa-backs-off-overseas-league-fixtures-but-the-struggle-for-power-still-goes-on