FIFA has signaled its willingness to reconsider its stance on prohibiting league matches from being held in countries outside their home territories. This development comes as part of an agreement reached with a promoter, leading to the dismissal of a lawsuit challenging FIFA’s policy.
The agreement, outlined in a letter filed by Relevent Sports lawyer Jeffrey L Kessler in a Manhattan court. States that FIFA has agreed to comply with any injunction arising from the lawsuit. However, the suit against US Soccer, also named as a defendant, remains unaffected by this agreement.
In its statement, FIFA acknowledged the resolution of the matter concerning them, pending the organization’s consideration of potential changes to its existing policies regarding the hosting of official season games outside a league’s home territory. FIFA emphasized that it has not admitted any liability and continues to refute the legal claims made in Relevent’s complaint.
The dispute arose when Relevent Sports, owned by Miami Dolphins owner Stephen Ross. Announced plans in August 2018 to host a La Liga match between Barcelona and Girona in Miami Gardens, Florida. The following January.
However, FIFA’s ruling council adopted a policy in October 2018 emphasizing the principle that official league matches should be played within the territory of the respective member association. Leading to Barcelona withdrawing from the proposed match in Florida.
Furthermore, Relevent encountered obstacles when attempting to sanction a league match between two Ecuadorian teams in the US in 2019. After US Soccer denied permission. Relevent subsequently filed a lawsuit against the governing bodies, alleging violations of the Sherman Antitrust Act and tortious interference.
Relevent’s CEO, Daniel Sillman, expressed optimism about the potential of hosting official European matches in the US but emphasized the importance of thoughtful collaboration in doing so. He reiterated the company’s commitment to supporting FIFA’s efforts in promoting the global growth of the sport and the top leagues worldwide.
While the antitrust claim was initially dismissed in July 2021. It was reinstated by the second US Circuit Court of Appeals in March 2023. US Soccer has sought to appeal the decision to the US Supreme Court. With the Biden administration supporting the appellate decision.
In a joint statement, FIFA and Relevent Sports highlighted their agreement to resolve the matter concerning FIFA. Emphasizing the ongoing deliberation regarding potential changes to FIFA’s rules regarding the hosting of matches outside a league’s home territory. Both parties expressed eagerness to collaborate in advancing the growth of the sport.
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