LaLiga Chief Javier Tebas Expresses Outrage Over Miami Match Cancellation
The president of LaLiga, Javier Tebas, is expressing his displeasure following the cancellation of the highly anticipated game in Miami.
The American promoters, responsible for organizing the match between Villarreal and Barcelona initially set for December, have opted to cancel the event following pressure from numerous parties, including the Spanish Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA). The fixture will now take place at La Ceramica.
In light of this decision, Tebas issued a statement condemning those who opposed the Miami game:
## A MISSED OPPORTUNITY FOR SPANISH FOOTBALL
“Today marks a setback for Spanish football, which has lost a chance to progress, showcase itself globally, and secure its future.
“The notion of defending ‘tradition’ stems from a narrow-minded and local perspective, while the true legacies of European football are endangered by actions taken by the governing bodies that year after year undermine national leagues—the real backbone of the football industry in Europe—amidst the ignorance and inaction of European leaders who struggle to differentiate between the trivial and the vital.
“The ‘integrity of the competition’ is invoked by those who have been challenging that very integrity for years, exerting pressure on referees and officials, fabricating misleading narratives, or utilizing political and media tactics as instruments in sports. Others, perhaps unintentionally and in good faith, have been drawn into discussions regarding information that was already settled in 2018, where that purported ‘information’—available then as well as now—served merely as a pretext to terminate the project.
“I extend my gratitude to Villarreal CF and FC Barcelona for their commitment and generosity in participating in a project designed solely for the betterment of our league. They acted not in self-interest but in consideration of the wider community.
“The League will persist in its efforts, with dedication and conviction, to ensure Spanish football’s competitiveness, standing firm against those intent on undermining it, all while maintaining respect for its heritage and ensuring its sustainable future.
“Spanish football has every right to aspire towards the future with ambition rather than trepidation. We will continue our efforts. We were very close this time.
