FIFA has announced that it is considering changes to its policy that prohibits league matches from being played in other countries. This decision comes as part of an agreement reached with soccer promoter Relevent Sports to dismiss a lawsuit challenging the policy. The agreement includes FIFA agreeing to abide by any injunction arising from the suit, with the U.S. Soccer Federation also named as a defendant in the legal action.
Relevent Sports, which is controlled by Miami Dolphins owner Stephen Ross, had announced plans in August 2018 to host a Spanish league match between Barcelona and Girona in Miami Gardens, Florida. However, FIFA’s ruling council later adopted a policy emphasizing that league matches must be played within the territory of the respective member association. As a result, Barcelona withdrew its commitment to play in Florida.
In addition to the dispute over the Barcelona-Girona match, Relevent was also denied permission by the USSF to sanction a league match between two teams from Ecuador in 2019. This led to a lawsuit being filed by Relevent against the governing bodies, alleging violations of the Sherman Antitrust Act and tortious interference. Relevent’s CEO, Daniel Sillman, expressed optimism about the potential for collaboration with FIFA in bringing official matches from Europe to the U.S. in a thoughtful manner.
The legal battle between Relevent and the governing bodies has seen some twists and turns. In July 2021, a motion to dismiss the antitrust claim was granted by a judge, but the case was reinstated by the 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in March 2023. The USSF has sought the Supreme Court’s involvement in the case, with the Biden administration recently advocating for the appellate decision to stand. Despite these challenges, Relevent Sports remains optimistic about the future and looks forward to partnering with FIFA to support the global growth of the game.
The agreement between FIFA and Relevent Sports to dismiss the lawsuit specifically pertains to FIFA’s consideration of changes to its rules regarding the playing of games outside of a league’s home territory. While FIFA has not admitted liability and continues to deny the legal claims alleged in Relevent’s complaint, the agreement signals a willingness to explore potential modifications to existing policies. Both sides are committed to working together to grow the game and support the best leagues in the world.
Overall, the resolution of this legal dispute marks a potential turning point in the relationship between international soccer governing bodies and promoters looking to expand the sport’s reach. With FIFA open to considering changes to its policies on playing league matches in other countries, there may be new opportunities for collaboration and growth in the global soccer landscape. The outcome of this case could have broader implications for the future of international soccer competitions and the hosting of matches outside traditional territories.
