Concacaf Requests U.S. referees for barcelona-Villarreal match in Miami, Raising League Controversy
MIAMI – Concacaf has formally requested that American referees officiate the upcoming La Liga match between barcelona and Villarreal, scheduled to be played in Miami on December 20, according to a report from El Chiringuito journalist Juanfe Sanz. The request, made to the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), stems from concerns regarding the decision to host an official Spanish League game outside of Spain.
The match, set for matchday 17 at Hard Rock Stadium, is already generating debate due to its location. While Concacaf has not opposed the game being played in the United States, the confederation has sought clarification from the RFEF regarding the rationale behind the decision.
“Concacaf has asked the RFEF for explanations about the match in Miami,” Sanz reported.
The request for American referees adds another layer of complexity. La Liga typically assigns officials from its own roster, and a shift to U.S.referees would represent a notable departure from standard practice.The barcelona-Villarreal match is the final fixture for Hansi Flick’s Barça before the Christmas break in 2025.
