The initiative to host a LaLiga encounter in Miami—a venture that has garnered attention since it was first proposed—faces significant challenges and is currently on hold. Sources indicate that the window for relocating Barcelona’s clash against Atlético Madrid set for December is rapidly closing. While there was previously optimism surrounding the idea of bringing this notable fixture to Hard Rock Stadium, various parties involved have indicated that logistical issues have led to a pause in these ambitious plans.
To successfully execute a match transfer from Spain to the U.S., LaLiga must secure approval from an array of governing bodies including the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), U.S. Soccer, Concacaf, UEFA, and FIFA. The complications are further exacerbated by the RFEF’s current lack of a permanent president due to upcoming elections. Until the elections conclude on December 16, the interim leadership remains in place, casting doubt on whether they possess the authority to sanction the match. Past experiences, particularly involving the previous interim president Pedro Rocha, who faced suspension for overstepping his bounds, add to the complicating factors.
LaLiga’s pursuit to host a game in the United States isn’t new; it has been attempting to stage matches in this territory for several years. Ambitious plans in the past, such as Barcelona taking on Girona and Atlético playing Villarreal in 2019, ultimately fell flat. Resistance from FIFA and logistical barriers thwarted these endeavors. However, a recent court ruling has altered the landscape somewhat, fostering renewed optimism. A significant decision by the U.S. Supreme Court allowed Relevent Sports Group’s antitrust lawsuit against FIFA and U.S. Soccer to progress, challenging the long-standing prohibition against hosting international league games on American soil.
Despite the current uncertainty regarding the December game, LaLiga remains committed to the aspiration of realizing a match in the U.S. In interviews, league president Javier Tebas has frequently reiterated this ambition, suggesting that while the timing may not be right for this particular game, the long-term goal remains unchanged. The enthusiasm from fans and the potential for expanding LaLiga’s global footprint continue to drive this pursuit, although the pathway forward requires overcoming existing hurdles.
As LaLiga grapples with the complexities of international match logistics, the dream of hosting a Spanish league game in Miami remains tantalizingly close yet frustratingly distant. A confluence of regulatory challenges, a lack of leadership within RFEF, and past failures loom large over the initiative. Nonetheless, the league’s persistent efforts demonstrate its dedication to expanding its reach into new markets, indicating that while this particular endeavor may be on hold, the fight to bring LaLiga across the Atlantic is far from over. As fans wait with bated breath, only time will tell if LaLiga can turn its visions into reality on U.S. soil.