# Serie A in Australia: Landmark AC Milan vs Como Fixture Receives Initial Green Light

The prospect of a competitive **Serie A in Australia** fixture is closer than ever to becoming a reality, as reports confirm the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) has given its preliminary approval for a landmark match to be played on foreign soil. The proposed game, a Lombardy derby between global giants AC Milan and newly-promoted Como 1907, is tentatively slated to take place in Perth, marking a revolutionary step for Italian football’s global strategy. While the initial domestic hurdle has been cleared, the proposal now faces a complex web of international approvals before the historic event can be officially confirmed.

This ambitious plan represents a significant strategic pivot for Serie A, which aims to expand its international footprint and tap into new, passionate fanbases. For decades, top European leagues have used pre-season tours to engage with overseas supporters, but taking a regular-season, for-points match abroad is a different proposition entirely—one that could reshape the landscape of club football.

## The Groundbreaking Proposal: Why a **Serie A in Australia** Match?

The decision to target Australia, and specifically Perth, is a calculated one. The move is driven by a desire to compete with the commercial might of the English Premier League and Spain’s La Liga, both of which have been actively exploring opportunities to host competitive matches abroad. By staging a **Serie A in Australia** game, the league hopes to captivate a market with a strong and vibrant Italian-Australian community, creating a powerful connection that goes beyond television broadcasts.

The choice of clubs is equally strategic. AC Milan is one of the most decorated and recognized clubs in world football, boasting a massive global fanbase that guarantees significant interest. Their involvement ensures the event has the star power necessary to attract a large crowd and extensive media coverage.

On the other side, Como 1907, while a smaller club historically, represents the new, ambitious face of Italian football. Following their recent promotion to the top flight, the club is backed by the Indonesian Djarum Group, one of the wealthiest ownership groups in football. This connection to the wider Asia-Pacific market makes Como an ideal partner for an international venture, signaling a forward-thinking approach that extends beyond traditional European powerhouses.

### Navigating the Bureaucratic Maze

Despite the FIGC’s endorsement, the path to Perth is paved with regulatory challenges. Several key governing bodies must provide their consent before the match can be officially scheduled.

**FIFA’s Official Stance**

The world governing body, FIFA, has historically been cautious about sanctioning domestic league matches in foreign countries. The primary concern has always been the potential disruption to the integrity of national competitions and the impact on local leagues in the host nation. However, recent developments suggest a potential softening of this stance. FIFA is currently reviewing its regulations, with new rules expected to be established that could create a formal pathway for such events. According to a recent report from ESPN, FIFA’s council has agreed to establish a working group to formulate these new regulations, a process that Serie A officials will be watching with keen interest.

**UEFA and AFC Approval**

As the continental governing body for Europe, UEFA’s approval is non-negotiable. UEFA must ensure that moving a fixture does not compromise the sporting principles of its member associations’ leagues. Similarly, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) and Football Australia, as the host confederation and national association respectively, must also grant their permission. Their assessment will likely focus on the logistical feasibility and the overall benefit to football in Australia. A successful event could bring significant economic and sporting benefits, but they must also weigh any potential negative impact on their own domestic A-League schedule.

### The Australian Connection: A Proven Market

Australia has long proven itself to be a fervent market for European football. Cities like Melbourne, Sydney, and Perth have successfully hosted pre-season tournaments featuring clubs like Manchester United, Liverpool, Barcelona, and even AC Milan themselves. These events consistently draw massive crowds, demonstrating a clear and sustained appetite for elite-level football.

Perth’s Optus Stadium, a state-of-the-art 60,000-seat venue, is the likely host. Its world-class facilities make it an ideal location for a high-profile event, ensuring a premium experience for fans and players alike. The potential match would not just be a game; it would be a week-long celebration of Italian culture and football, further strengthening the bond between Serie A and its Australian supporters. This is a developing story, and you can follow this trend and others for more news.

If approved, the Milan vs. Como match would set a powerful precedent. It could open the door for other leagues to follow suit, potentially leading to a future where international rounds of fixtures become a regular part of the football calendar. While traditionalists may argue it detracts from the domestic nature of a league, proponents see it as a necessary evolution for football to thrive in an increasingly globalized world. The journey for **Serie A in Australia** is still in its early stages, but the ambition is clear, and the world will be watching to see if Italian football can successfully plant its flag on new shores.