LaLiga has officially cancelled its planned fixture in Miami between Barcelona and Villarreal, following backlash from players and clubs. The match wi
LaLiga has officially cancelled its planned fixture in Miami between Barcelona and Villarreal, following backlash from players and clubs. The match will now be played in Spain.
The highly anticipated game, originally scheduled for December 20 at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, was set to be the first-ever Spanish league match held overseas.
However, LaLiga confirmed that the fixture has been called off due to mounting opposition from players and domestic stakeholders.
The decision came after protests last weekend, with many arguing that staging a competitive league match outside Spain undermines the integrity of the competition.
Promoter Relevant Sports, which had partnered with LaLiga to organise the event, requested its cancellation, citing “uncertainty in Spain” and growing resistance from within the football community.
The league expressed regret over the cancellation, describing the Miami match as a “historic and unparalleled opportunity” to globalise Spanish football.
Despite the setback, LaLiga reiterated its commitment to international expansion, though plans may now face increased scrutiny.
The fixture will now take place at Villarreal’s home ground, Estadio de la Cerámica, as part of matchday 17.
While the cancellation marks a blow to LaLiga’s ambitions in the U.S. market, it also highlights the tension between commercial interests and sporting tradition.
For now, the league will refocus its efforts on domestic engagement and explore alternative strategies for global outreach.
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