Football’s English Premier League and a number of other major British sports organisations have announced that events and games will not go ahead this weekend following the death of the queen.
Premier League clubs met this morning to discuss this weekend’s round of matches, with teams agreeing to postpone all matches, including the Monday night match between Leeds United and Nottingham Forest, as a mark of respect.
The queen passed away yesterday (8 September) at Balmoral Castle in Scotland after 70 years on the throne.
“We and our clubs would like to pay tribute to her majesty’s long and unwavering service to our country,” Premier League chief executive Richard Masters said. “As our longest-serving monarch, she has been an inspiration and leaves behind an incredible legacy following a life of dedication.
“This is a tremendously sad time for not just the nation but also for the millions of people around the world who admired her, and we join together with all those in mourning her passing.”
The English Football League, comprising the three leagues below the Premier League, also announced the postponement of all its scheduled games today and over the weekend. The Irish FA also confirmed all football across Northern Ireland will not take place this weekend.
A number of Uefa Europa League matches took place last night, with news of the queen’s death only being announced shortly ahead of kick-off.
Earlier today, the British Horseracing Authority cancelled all meetings today and tomorrow, though racing will return on 11 September.
Play in the cricket test match between England and South Africa at The Oval in London was called off for today, while the second day of golf’s PGA Championship at Wentworth near London will not take place.
Cycling Tour of Britain cancelled its final three stages in Gloucestershire, Dorset and the Isle of Wight.
In rugby union, last night’s scheduled Premiership Rugby Cup clash between Northampton Saints and Saracens was called off, but a decision is yet to be made on other games this weekend.
