Real Madrid Reject Plans for La Liga Match in USA

Real Madrid Strongly Oppose Villarreal v Barcelona in USA

Real Madrid have issued their “strongest rejection” of plans to move Villarreal’s La Liga fixture against Barcelona to the United States, warning it would set “an unacceptable precedent” for world football.

The match is currently scheduled for 21 December 2025 at Estadio de la Cerámica, but the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) approved a proposal to host it at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami — a venue set to stage seven matches at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Real Madrid: ‘Integrity at Risk’

In a statement, Real said hosting Villarreal’s home game abroad would “alter the competitive balance” and grant an “undue sporting advantage” to the clubs involved.

“The integrity of the competition requires that all matches be held under the same conditions for all teams,” the club stressed.

“Unilaterally modifying this regime compromises legitimacy and opens the door to exceptions based on interests other than strictly sporting.”

Real have urged FIFA not to approve the switch without the consent of all La Liga clubs, and have asked UEFA to pressure the RFEF to withdraw its request.

Mixed Reaction from Spanish Football

• FASFE — the Spanish Football Supporters’ Association — has joined Villarreal and Barcelona fan groups in vowing to take legal action if the game is moved.

• Villarreal president Fernando Roig, however, supports the plan, calling it a chance to “expand the brand” and generate revenue to compete with Premier League clubs.

Background: Matches Abroad in Debate

FIFA rules currently prohibit domestic league matches being played overseas, though a working group is reviewing the issue.

In recent years:

• The Italian Super Cup and Spanish Super Cup have been staged abroad.

• La Liga’s 2024 plan for Barcelona v Atletico Madrid in Miami was dropped due to time constraints.

• In Serie A, AC Milan are seeking approval to play Como in Perth, Australia due to the 2026 Winter Olympics opening ceremony at San Siro.