UEFA and the European Club Association (ECA) have entered exclusive negotiations with Relevent Sports for the global commercial rights to UEFA men’s club competitions from 2027 to 2033. This move could bring a Champions League final—and potentially other major games—to the United States by 2033. Relevent, controlled by Miami Dolphins owner Stephen Ross, has long sought to stage European club matches in the U.S.
If finalized, the deal would end UEFA’s long-standing partnership with TEAM Marketing, risking up to 170 jobs and marking a major shift in European football’s commercial landscape. The decision reflects growing influence from elite clubs, the increasing involvement of U.S. and Gulf investors, and the drive to expand football’s global market. UEFA aims to show it is evolving and responding to commercial pressures, especially amid competition from alternative entertainment platforms like TikTok.
The move is also linked to FIFA’s recent openness to reconsidering its ban on league matches being played in foreign countries. Relevent previously attempted to bring a La Liga game to Miami and has positioned itself as a key player in reshaping international football’s reach. The potential agreement signals a transformative period for UEFA competitions, emphasizing financial growth and globalization over traditional European exclusivity.
Source: The Independent