LaLiga president Javier Tebas has expressed his hope and plans to have competitive games played in the United States as early as the 2025-26 season. This ambitious goal is not new, as Tebas originally intended to stage a league match between Barcelona and Girona at Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium back in 2018. However, this proposal faced significant opposition from the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) and FIFA, among others. Despite the setbacks, a recent lawsuit involving Relevent Sports Group has reignited the possibility of playing LaLiga matches in the U.S.
Renewed Optimism and Potential Roadblocks
Tebas’s recent statements regarding the potential for official games abroad have generated renewed optimism within LaLiga. He sees playing in the United States as a strategic move to strengthen LaLiga’s position in the North American market, which is the second-largest market for the league after Spain. However, Tebas acknowledges the increasing competition from other top leagues and the need to adapt to stay ahead. While sources from LaLiga have confirmed that the idea of international games is closer to becoming a reality, it is essential to note that Tebas’s comments do not constitute an official announcement.
The recent lawsuit involving Relevent Sports Group, FIFA, and the U.S. courts has played a pivotal role in shaping the future of LaLiga’s international games. The Supreme Court’s decision to allow Relevent’s antitrust lawsuit against FIFA and the U.S. Soccer Federation to proceed marks a significant step forward. This legal battle stemmed from FIFA’s policy of not permitting countries to host league matches involving teams from other nations. Relevent’s case against FIFA gained momentum after the U.S. Court of Appeals ruled in favour of the sports group, prompting the Biden administration to support Relevent in the Supreme Court.
Relevent Sports Group, known for organizing and promoting soccer events in the U.S., has a 50-50 joint venture with LaLiga in North America. This partnership covers various aspects such as media rights, sponsorship assets, fan events, and grassroots initiatives. Additionally, Relevent has a track record of arranging preseason friendlies and tournaments in the U.S. While the agreement between Relevent and FIFA to drop the world governing body from the lawsuit is a step in the right direction, it still awaits approval from the U.S. District Judge Valerie E. Caproni. As both parties navigate legal complexities and negotiations, the possibility of competitive LaLiga games in the United States draws closer.
The future of LaLiga expanding its reach to the United States through official games is promising but faces challenges both legally and logistically. With the support of key stakeholders, including Relevent Sports Group and the Biden administration, the dream of playing LaLiga matches abroad could soon become a reality. As the landscape of international football continues to evolve, LaLiga is poised to make bold moves to secure its position in the global market.
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