Serie A Milan-Como Perth Plan Collapses Over AFC Rules

Plans to stage a Serie A match between AC Milan and Como in Perth, Australia, on February 8, 2026, appear headed for collapse following restrictive conditions imposed by the Asian Football Confederation. The fixture, intended as the first competitive European league game ever held outside its home country, faced insurmountable hurdles after approvals came with demands that conflicted with league rules.

The proposal emerged because San Siro stadium in Milan will host the opening ceremony of the 2026 Winter Olympics on February 6, leaving no viable venue for the match in Italy during that period. Serie A officials viewed the relocation to Optus Stadium in Perth as an opportunity to expand the league's global reach and generate revenue amid growing financial disparities with other top European competitions. Both clubs supported the initiative, with Como's management emphasizing its role in enhancing the league's international visibility.

FIFA and UEFA had granted reluctant approval on an exceptional basis, following a similar but ultimately canceled plan by Spain's LaLiga to play Barcelona against Villarreal in Miami in December. That effort was abandoned amid protests from...