National leagues will be allowed to hold only one match per season in foreign countries, with a limit of five matches for host countries, according to new FIFA proposals.

The document, cited by the Guardian and Athletic newspapers, outlines clearer and stricter regulations for the controversial “international matches” that led to a dispute between FIFA and UEFA this season.

According to FIFA’s preliminary proposal, any league wishing to take a match outside its territory will need to obtain approval from its federation and football confederation, as well as the federation and confederation of the host country, with FIFA having the final say.

Spanish La Liga and Italian Serie A had scheduled matches for Miami (United States) and Perth (Australia) this season, but the matches—between Villarreal and Barcelona and Milan and Como—were cancelled following objections from local authorities.

Protection for Players and Fans

FIFA’s plans also seek to protect players from the impact of travel, as well as fans of participating teams, including possible financial compensation for missing a home game or assistance so they can also make the trip.

There will also have to be guarantees that revenues from domestic games played abroad will be redistributed and that the league will not be negatively affected.

Obligation to Reciprocate

In this chapter, the proposal on the table establishes a commitment: the obligation to at least reciprocate the favor to the host country.

If LaLiga takes a game to Miami, it must give Major League Soccer the opportunity to hold a game in Spain.