Full Breakdown
Serie A Cancels Historic Match Between AC Milan and Como in Perth
12/23/2025, 3:02:58 AM
Match Cancellation Announcement
The Italian Serie A has officially canceled the scheduled match between AC Milan and Como, which was set to take place in Perth, Australia, in early February. This decision comes despite earlier assurances from Serie A president Ezio Simonelli that the match would proceed. A joint statement from Serie A and the Western Australian Government revealed that the cancellation was due to financial risks that could not be mitigated, onerous approval conditions, and last-minute complications.
Background and Context
The match was intended to be a historic event, marking the first official European league match for points played outside its national borders. The decision to host the fixture in Perth was partly motivated by the unavailability of San Siro, which will host the opening ceremony of the 2026 Olympics in Milan on February 8. The fixture had received approval from all 20 Serie A clubs, the Italian Football Association, and UEFA.
Financial and Logistical Challenges
The joint statement emphasized that the onerous conditions imposed by the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) for sanctioning the match could not be met without incurring significant financial risks for both the Western Australian Government and Serie A. Despite extensive efforts to bring the match to Perth, including generating over $280 million in global media exposure since April, the involved parties ultimately deemed the risks too great.
Official Statements & Responses
Ezio Simonelli expressed disappointment regarding the cancellation, stating, "While expressing disappointment at the outcome of this project, we remain firmly convinced that this conclusion is a missed opportunity in the growth of Italian football at an international level, which also deprives the many Serie A fans abroad of the dream of attending a match of their favourite team in person."
Criticism & Opposition
The cancellation has drawn criticism from fans and stakeholders who viewed the match as a significant opportunity for international exposure and growth for Italian football. The decision follows a similar situation in Spain, where LaLiga's plans to host a match in Miami were also thwarted due to player protests, highlighting the challenges leagues face when attempting to expand their global footprint.
What's Next
With the cancellation of the AC Milan vs. Como match, Serie A will need to reassess its strategies for international engagement and consider alternative venues or formats for future matches abroad. The league's commitment to expanding its global presence remains strong, but the recent setbacks underscore the complexities involved in executing such ambitious plans.
