By Marta Elena Casanova
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An idea still on hold. UEFA reflects
Football today is no longer just about the ball and passion — it has become a global business in constant evolution. From this perspective came the proposal to stage Milan-Como at the Optus Stadium in Perth, Australia, on the weekend of 7–8 February 2026. It would be the very first time an official Serie A match is played on the other side of the world, a potentially historic event.
Yet, contrary to what was suggested in recent days, UEFA has not given the green light. The Executive Committee, which met on 11 September 2025, decided to postpone the decision, deeming it necessary to launch a consultation process with clubs, fans, federations and all stakeholders. For now, therefore, there is no definitive approval: Milan-Como in Australia remains a possibility, but not a certainty.
The proposal originates from the need to find an alternative venue, since San Siro will not be available due to its use for the opening ceremony of the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics. But UEFA’s reasons for postponement go beyond logistics: the debate touches on the very identity of European football, its relationship with fans, and competitive balance.
Simonelli’s words
Ezio Simonelli, president of Serie A, admitted that looking abroad is now a priority: “I would have liked to play the entire first matchday outside Italy, in the USA; I had received an economic offer. We must focus on foreign markets. We must improve.” Statements that confirm how international expansion is seen as strategic for the future of Italian football.
The numbers behind the project
Taking a Serie A match to Australia would mean launching a huge logistical operation: intercontinental flights, staff and supporters to manage, stadiums adapted to UEFA standards. But the potential revenues remain significant.
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TV rights: Australian kickoff times would be perfect for Asia and Oceania, still relatively untapped by Italian football.
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Sponsorships: an event of this kind would attract both local and global partners, with returns estimated in tens of millions of euros.
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Merchandising: Milan’s global appeal would guarantee strong commercial traction, while Como would gain a unique chance to grow its emerging brand.
The precedent of La Liga’s attempt to play Barcelona-Girona in Miami — though never realised — had projected revenues of over €10 million for just one game.
Fans’ perspective
While broadcasters and sponsors see opportunity, supporters remain far more sceptical. A match staged 14,000 kilometres away would effectively exclude San Siro season-ticket holders and Como fans from attending a “home” game.
There is also the matter of refunds: alternative packages, credits, compensation? Any solution risks causing dissatisfaction. Above all, there is the identity issue: if football prioritises global markets over local roots, doesn’t it risk losing its historical base?
The sporting aspect
From a purely sporting angle, serious concerns remain. An intercontinental trip means days of travel and inevitable physical consequences. How can such a demanding commitment fit into the already tight schedules of league and European competitions?
Precedents and cultural resistance
The NFL and NBA have long played in London, Paris, Abu Dhabi or Mexico City. But European football remains more traditionalist, deeply tied to the concepts of home, supporters and territory. The idea of Milan-Como in Perth challenges that taboo: hence the resistance, and UEFA’s caution.
From an economic perspective, the operation makes sense: it boosts revenue, opens new markets, increases visibility. But in sporting and cultural terms, it remains a risky terrain. UEFA’s postponement is not a rejection, but a clear signal: before breaking with tradition, risks and consequences must be carefully measured.
In the end, Milan-Como in Perth today is an idea suspended in mid-air. It could become a laboratory for the football of the future, or remain an experiment doomed to clash with a culture that, while hungry for new resources, does not want to lose its soul.
By Marta Elena Casnova
