Plans to hold the match between Barcelona and Villarreal in Miami have been canceled, La Liga has confirmed. The game was scheduled for December 20 at the Hard Rock Stadium and would have marked the first European league match to be played outside the continent. The decision to cancel came after significant criticism, notably from Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois. La Liga expressed regret over the missed opportunity to expand Spanish football internationally. The American organizer, Relevent Sports, also confirmed the need to postpone the event due to uncertainties in Spain and insufficient time to organize such a large-scale event. Last weekend, La Liga players protested the decision by standing still for the first 15 seconds of their matches. Courtois commented that such decisions distort the competition and it is unfair to change the rules mid-season without consulting the players. UEFA President Aleksander Čeferin also expressed regret over the decision but emphasized that it should not be seen as a precedent.

The cancellation of the Miami match highlights the complexities of international sporting events and the need for careful planning and coordination. Despite the potential for global exposure, local conditions and sentiments must be considered to avoid such misunderstandings.