The FIFA is close to approving a significant regulatory change that would allow domestic league matches to be played outside their home countries, marking a departure from long-standing rules that prohibited such arrangements.
According to a report by The Guardian, FIFA is preparing to permit each league to stage one official match abroad per season.
The proposed system would require approvals from both national and continental governing bodies in the host and home countries before any request is submitted for final authorization.
FIFA is also developing a new protocol designed to enforce strict standards regarding player welfare and revenue distribution.
The initiative aims to expand the global reach of domestic competitions and unlock commercial opportunities, particularly in markets such as North America and the Middle East.
Previous attempts to host league matches overseas have faced obstacles. Plans involving FC Barcelona and Villarreal CF in Miami, as well as AC Milan and Como in Perth, were ultimately canceled due to logistical and regulatory challenges.
In one prominent case, Spain’s La Liga called off a scheduled fixture between Barcelona and Villarreal in Miami after reviewing organizational concerns.
Barcelona later issued a statement expressing respect for the decision, while acknowledging disappointment over the missed opportunity to expand the league’s presence in a key international market.
The club also thanked its supporters in the United States for their continued backing and expressed regret that fans were unable to attend an official match on home soil.
If approved, the policy could usher in a new phase for global football, reshaping how domestic leagues connect with international audiences.
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