FIFA Considers Review of Policy on Domestic League Games in Other Countries

In a significant departure from traditional soccer norms, FIFA has initiated a review of its policy that prohibits domestic league matches from being played in other countries.

This move marks a potential shift in soccer landscape dynamics and has sparked debates among fans and stakeholders.

The proposal has raised concerns among fans, who may need help with the idea of their home matches being relocated thousands of miles away.

Despite this, it has become commonplace for major U.S. sports leagues to organize games internationally to enhance their global presence and fan engagement.

Gary Lineker, a renowned figure in the soccer world, swiftly expressed his disapproval of the plan, emphasizing his objection on social media.

Lineker's reaction underscores the potential resistance the proposal may encounter from fans and soccer personalities.

The United States and Saudi Arabia are poised to offer themselves as host countries to attract competitive games from top European leagues.

FIFA's decision to withdraw from a legal battle challenging the ban on organizing competitive league games further paves the way for this initiative.

While FIFA President Gianni Infantino refrained from commenting on the matter during the council meeting in Bangkok, the decision to form a working group to assess "out-of-territory" games indicates a proactive approach by soccer's governing body.

Domestic Super Cup matches are the only instances where soccer authorities from countries like Italy, Spain, and France play abroad, albeit for ceremonial purposes.

However, the new policy could be appealing to international club owners, including those from the U.S., contributing to the globalization of the sport.

Premier League CEO Richard Masters clarified that such plans are not part of their current agenda, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the integrity of domestic leagues.

FIFA aims to gather a diverse panel representing various soccer stakeholders to review and potentially amend the rules on out-of-territory games.

Key considerations include fairness, fan engagement, and the impact on teams and leagues.

This development comes in the wake of previous attempts, such as the proposed Barcelona game in Miami in 2019, which faced obstacles.

FIFA's directive underscores the need to balance the interests of all stakeholders while exploring new avenues for the sport's growth.

In light of the passionate fan bases in countries like England and Germany, FIFA's review must carefully navigate potential opposition from these quarters.

The Super League project's recent failure highlights fan sentiments' significance in shaping soccer's future.

The investigation into Spanish Super Cup games held in Saudi Arabia further underscores the complexities and legal implications associated with hosting domestic league matches abroad.

As FIFA embarks on this review process, it faces the challenge of balancing commercial interests with preserving the essence and integrity of domestic soccer leagues worldwide.