Serie A’s Ambitious Plan for the United States
Serie A, one of the most prestigious soccer leagues in the world, is making bold moves to expand its global footprint. With nine of its 20 teams under American ownership, the league is poised to become the first major European soccer league to play a regular-season game in the United States, according to Italian league president Ezio Simonelli. This ambitious goal is a testament to the growing influence and financial clout of American investors in European football.
Breaking Down FIFA’s Resistance
The International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) has historically been resistant to the idea of domestic league games being played in other countries. However, last year, FIFA took a significant step by ordering a review of its longstanding policy, which could pave the way for Serie A’s plans. According to Simonelli, "Holding a game abroad also requires authorization by the local league, so we need to make an agreement in that regard. But we are considering timeframes that would work for this. We want to be the first league to set up an event like this in the United States." This forward-thinking approach is a strategic move to tap into the lucrative U.S. market and enhance the league’s global appeal.
The American Connection
Simonelli, who was elected to his role just two months ago, is uniquely positioned to push this initiative forward. He acknowledges the significant role of American clubs and owners in Serie A. "This is a market that we count on a lot. We have nine clubs under American ownership and one Canadian, so I also need to thank them since they elected me," he said. The American-owned clubs—Atalanta, Fiorentina, AC Milan, Inter Milan, Parma, Roma, Venezia, and Hellas Verona—along with Bologna, which is owned by Canadian Joey Saputo, form a powerful bloc that can drive the league’s international ambitions.
A Growing American Presence in Serie A
Serie A is not only benefiting from American ownership but also from the talent of U.S. players. Notable American standouts like Christian Pulisic (Milan), Weston McKennie (Juventus), and Timothy Weah (Juventus) have made significant impacts in the league. Their presence not only enhances the quality of play but also provides a strong connection to the U.S. fan base. This synergy between American ownership and talent is a key factor in Serie A’s push to hold games in the United States.
Historical Precedents and Future Plans
Serie A has a history of holding prestigious events abroad, such as the Italian Super Cup, which has been played in countries like Saudi Arabia. The Spanish league, La Liga, has also attempted to hold games in the United States but has not been successful. Serie A’s experience with international events and its strong ties to the American market give it a unique advantage in making this initiative a reality. Inter and Juventus are set to play in the Club World Cup in the U.S. later this year, further solidifying the league’s connection to American soil.
Looking to the Future
With the U.S. hosting the 2026 World Cup alongside Canada and Mexico, the time seems ripe for Serie A to make its mark on American soil. The league’s plans are not just about playing a game; they are about building a lasting bridge between European and American soccer cultures. By leveraging the power of American ownership and the growing popularity of soccer in the U.S., Serie A aims to create a new era of international football that benefits fans, clubs, and the sport as a whole.
