European Sports Commissioner says no to Milan vs. Como in Australia: “Belongs to Europe”

In recent months, there has been more and more said the chances of AC Milan playing Como in Australia, due to the San Siro usage.

Talk of the possibility of a game in Australia has only grown in months gone, and it seems like things are already being hoped for. In fact, the decision has already received the green light from several higher-ups in Italy.

However, it may not actually be allowed to happen, with FIFA and UEFA still required to give a response to the clubs about the situation. For now, though, it remains a possibility, a daunting one, but a possibility nonetheless.

Damning words

There is a lot of opposition to the idea from several avenues, from Milan fans to neutrals. Today, another opposition has spoken out, this time Glenn Micallef, the European Commissioner for Intergenerational Equity, Youth, Culture and Sport, and MilanNews have relayed his words about the situation today. 

“European football belongs to Europe. In recent weeks, what should be a given has been called into question by the decision of La Liga and Serie A to play league matches outside Europe, in the United States and Australia.

“When I heard the argument that playing just one league match outside Europe out of 380 matches in total would be harmless, I couldn’t disagree more. Just one league match outside Europe is already one match too many. This isn’t simply a scheduling issue. It’s a question of principle, not numbers.

“Clubs rely on the loyalty and commitment of their fans and communities, many of whom make great personal sacrifices to support them in every circumstance. Depriving them of matches is not innovation but a betrayal of trust. And this is literally a case of “deprivation.”

“There isn’t a single group of fans who would choose to see their team play fewer home games. A recent survey found that over 80% of fans oppose seeing La Liga games played in the United States, with many citing “a disconnect from community and tradition” as the reason.

“What’s at stake here is the very integrity of the European sporting model, which is founded on strong, community-based clubs. Without community, the model collapses. Taking national league matches outside of Europe undermines the very heart of European football.

“The territorial aspect of competitions is a core principle. This is the first major test of sporting governance after the failed attempts by some of Europe’s leading clubs to establish a Super League. The fans were right then, and they are right now: football belongs to them. If it were my local club, I would be among the first to protest to ensure the message is clear: this must not happen. Because, ultimately, it’s simple: European competitions must be played in Europe.

“There is no objection to other competitions being played outside of Europe, but domestic league matches are a different matter. This case demonstrates the need for a more robust framework to limit commercially driven relocations of national competitions.

“There should be greater legal certainty to protect the integrity and competitive balance of competitions, while preserving the cultural and social foundations on which sport is built. In preparation for the European Commission’s communication entitled “A strategic vision for sport in Europe: strengthening the European model of sport,” a public consultation will be launched in September.

“I hope that true football fans in Europe will make their voices heard. European football belongs to Europe.”