Football: UEFA gives green light to Milan-Como match in Perth: ‘But only as an exception’

Rome, 6 October (LaPresse) – UEFA has given its approval for the Serie A match between Milan and Como to be played in Perth, Australia, although the decision, together with that of Villarreal-Barcelona in the Spanish La Liga, was taken on an entirely exceptional basis, specifying that it cannot under any circumstances set a precedent: “UEFA today reiterated its clear opposition to the staging of domestic league matches abroad. Following its Executive Committee meeting in Tirana last month, UEFA – according to the statement – initiated further consultations with stakeholders to assess the scope of the implications of the issue, following requests received from the Spanish and Italian football federations. This consultation confirmed the widespread lack of support, already raised by fans, other leagues, clubs, players and European institutions, for the concept of moving national league matches abroad. However, given that the relevant FIFA regulatory framework, currently under review, is not sufficiently clear and detailed, the UEFA Executive Committee has reluctantly taken the decision to approve, on an exceptional basis, the two requests submitted to it. UEFA will actively contribute to the ongoing work conducted by FIFA to ensure that future rules maintain the integrity of national competitions and the close link between clubs, their fans and local communities. At the same time, all UEFA national associations have confirmed their commitment to working with UEFA before submitting any future requests. In doing so, they have expressed their collective determination to safeguard the broader interests of European football,‘ the statement continued. Announcing the decision, UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin said: ’League matches should be played at home; any other solution would deprive the most loyal fans and potentially introduce distorting elements into the competitions. Our consultation confirmed the breadth of these concerns. I would like to thank the 55 national associations for their constructive and responsible engagement on such a sensitive issue.‘ ’While it is regrettable to have to forfeit these two matches, this decision is exceptional and should not be considered a precedent. Our commitment is clear: to protect the integrity of national leagues and ensure that football remains anchored in its home environment,” he concluded.