FC Barcelona has unexpectedly cancelled its scheduled trip to Japan, originally set for Thursday, July 24, following a breach of contract by the event organizers. The Catalan club, which had been preparing all logistical aspects of the tour, issued an official statement explaining that the team will not travel to Asia “due to the organizers‘ failure to meet contractual obligations.”
The decision has surprised both Japanese fans and Barça supporters worldwide. The match was part of the team’s preseason preparations for the 2024–2025 campaign, an important one for the club as it enters a new era under head coach Hansi Flick.
Despite the setback, the club confirmed it will continue its training schedule at the Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper and is currently looking into alternative options to stay on track with preseason development.
What are the consequences of this cancellation for Barcelona?
Beyond reputational damage and potential financial losses, the team also misses out on valuable international match experience and a chance to connect with its fanbase in Asia, a key market in the club’s global expansion strategy.
This situation highlights the risks of international tours when legal safeguards are not airtight. Now, Barcelona must rework its preseason plans with the start of La Liga fast approaching.