The recent disruption during a minute’s silence at Rugby Park due to some Celtic fans not showing respect was a concerning event. However, Dundee’s managing director, John Nelms, diverted attention to the possibility of Scottish teams playing matches overseas. He expressed openness to the idea of hosting a Premiership game abroad to entertain fans and generate interest.
In the past, talks between Dundee and Celtic about hosting a game in the United States progressed significantly in 2015, but FIFA, MLS, and UEFA raised concerns about playing league fixtures outside the clubs’ member association territories. However, recent developments suggest a shift in attitude from football governing bodies towards hosting matches abroad for financial gain.
Major sports leagues like the NFL and NBA have successfully hosted games in various countries to expand their fan bases, increase revenue, and boost merchandise sales. While the idea of Scottish Premiership games being played overseas may seem far-fetched, embracing change could benefit the league by attracting new audiences and generating additional income.
Despite initial backlash over the proposed Old Firm friendly game in Australia, exploring opportunities to showcase Scottish football on a global stage should not be dismissed. Embracing change and adapting to new trends in the sports industry could help elevate the profile of the SPFL and ensure its competitiveness in the ever-evolving landscape of football. The potential of Celtic v Rangers at a prestigious venue like Caesars Superdome in New Orleans could be a game-changer for Scottish football. Let’s stay tuned for what the future holds.
