Calcio Takes Off: Milan vs Como Heads to Perth, Redefining Serie A's Reach

Historic Milan–Como clash lands in Perth

Milan and Como are set to play in Perth, Australia, in February 2026, marking the first Serie A fixture hosted outside Italy. The decision received UEFA’s approval and is framed as a bold experiment to showcase calcio on a global stage, especially as San Siro gears up for the Winter Olympics ceremonies that same month, making the Italian venue unavailable.

The move is pitched as a strategic effort to expand broadcasting revenue and commercial reach for Italian football, with growth prospects in Asia and Oceania highlighted as key drivers. Australian authorities are reported to be prepared to invest around €12 million to cover organization and promotional costs, with an expected net distribution of roughly €8–€9 million to Milan, Como, and other Serie A clubs voting in favor.

Because Milan is the official host, it is anticipated to receive the largest slice of the proceeds to offset ticket income. The Italian league sees the Perth experiment as a step toward long‑term globalization of calcio, broadening its appeal beyond traditional European markets and into new territories.

The plan is framed as a marketing experiment designed to boost broadcasting and sponsorship value for the league, especially in markets across Asia and Oceania that have shown growing interest in European football. It is also noted as a potential model for future cross‑border fixtures as the sport seeks new revenue streams.

Critics, including Adrien Rabiot of Juventus, called the idea “crazy,” warning about player fatigue and the logistical burden of mid‑season travel. He told Tuttomercatoweb that he was surprised by a Serie A game being staged in Australia, acknowledging economic rationales but insisting players must adapt and that the schedule is a concern.

On the other hand, the move echoes a La Liga trajectory, where talks of international matches have surfaced. Last year, Spain’s federation floated a Barcelona–Villarreal fixture in Miami, subject to FIFA/UEFA approvals and compatibility with the international calendar, aiming to broaden La Liga’s footprint in the United States.

Back in Italy, Milan’s form this season has been solid through six rounds: four wins, two draws, and a single loss to Cremonese. They have beaten Lecce (2–0) and Udinese (3–0), drawn with Juventus (0–0), and won at Bologna (1–0) and Napoli (2–1), sitting third with 13 points, two behind leaders Napoli and Roma who both have 15.

League officials stress that hosting in Perth is a test – both for fan reception and for the balance between travel, fitness, and competitive integrity. If successful, the move could pave the way for more international fixtures intended to unlock new broadcasting deals and expand calcio’s global marketing footprint. The Perth match is thus seen as more than a one‑off; it could signal a new era for the Italian game, balancing market demands with the demands of domestic competition.

Punchlines aside, calcio keeps chasing a bigger stage. If Milan wins, some will call it a new era; if they don’t, at least the travel miles will fund a lifetime supply of airline snacks. And if life gives you long flights, you might as well land with a goal in your luggage.