Key Highlights

  • Club América considers U.S. for home games during Estadio Azteca renovations.
  • Santiago Baños discusses the impact of the Relevent Sports lawsuit’s resolution on Liga MX.
  • Potential shifts in FIFA’s policy could allow domestic league matches in foreign territories.
  • Cruz Azul and Club América to share Estadio Ciudad de los Deportes for the 2024-25 season.

(NicePlay Sports) – In a significant development that could reshape the landscape of international soccer, Club América president Santiago Baños has revealed plans that could see the club playing Liga MX home games in the United States. This strategic move is prompted by the upcoming renovations of their iconic home ground, Estadio Azteca, in preparation for the 2026 World Cup. The decision not only aims to cater to their vast U.S. fanbase but also aligns with the evolving policies on international soccer competitions. Baños’s announcement comes in the wake of the settlement of the Relevent Sports lawsuit, which challenged FIFA’s restrictions on hosting domestic league games abroad. This development could set a precedent for other clubs looking to expand their presence in international markets.

Club América’s Strategic Expansion into the U.S. Market

Amidst the evolving landscape of global soccer, Club América’s contemplation to host Liga MX games in the U.S. represents a pivotal shift. The club’s president, Santiago Baños, has expressed openness to this possibility, especially in light of recent legal developments that might allow for more flexibility in where teams can play their home games. This move would not only appease the sizable American fanbase but also offer a strategic advantage in expanding the club’s brand internationally.

With the Estadio Azteca undergoing significant renovations to meet the demands of the 2026 World Cup, América needs to find alternative venues for its home games. The U.S., with its large Latino population and established fan interest in Liga MX, presents a lucrative option. The logistical and commercial benefits are clear, but the club must also navigate the complexities of such a decision, including fan reactions and regulatory approvals.

Implications of the Relevent Sports Lawsuit Settlement

The resolution of the Relevent Sports lawsuit against FIFA and U.S. Soccer has opened new doors for international soccer matches. Initially, the lawsuit challenged FIFA’s policy that prevented domestic league games from being played outside their home countries. With FIFA now potentially revising these policies, clubs like Club América could host regular-season matches abroad, a scenario previously unimaginable.

This legal adjustment could lead to a significant transformation in how soccer clubs operate globally, allowing them to host games in potentially lucrative markets. For Club América, this means tapping into the U.S. market where the fan base is robust and growing. The club’s leadership, under Baños, is keenly aware of the strategic implications and is poised to leverage this new opportunity to its fullest.

Club América and Cruz Azul: A Shared Venue and Rivalry

While exploring U.S. venues, Club América and Cruz Azul are set to share the Estadio Ciudad de los Deportes for the 2024-25 season due to the renovations at Estadio Azteca. This arrangement is not just a logistical necessity but also a chapter in the storied rivalry between the two clubs. Sharing a stadium will bring unique challenges and dynamics to their competitive relationship, impacting fan interactions and match-day revenues.

This temporary arrangement provides both clubs an opportunity to manage their schedules and resources collaboratively while maintaining their competitive edge. The shared use of Estadio Ciudad de los Deportes will test the administrative acumen of both clubs’ management, setting a precedent for cooperation in Mexican soccer.

Liga MX’s Growing Influence in the U.S. Soccer Market

Liga MX enjoys considerable viewership in the U.S., and clubs like Club América playing games on American soil could further enhance this popularity. Such moves are not just about playing games; they’re about deepening cultural ties and enhancing the league’s brand among a diverse audience. Major League Soccer (MLS) has also recognized this trend, integrating more with Liga MX through joint tournaments like the Leagues Cup, which sees teams from both leagues competing.

The potential for Club América to play in the U.S. is a testament to Liga MX’s growing strategic importance in North American soccer. It reflects a broader trend of sports globalization, where the interaction between leagues from different countries is becoming more fluid and integrated.