According to the Government, the Premier League is not required to postpone this weekend’s schedule of games in light of the passing of Queen Elizabeth II.
The monarch passed away on Thursday afternoon. As the longest-reigning monarch in British history, Her Majesty passed away at age 96, leaving an immeasurable legacy for the nation.
Together, the FA and UEFA decided that it would be best for that specific match (and other European matches involving British teams) to go ahead due to potential problems with fans from both clubs who had already traveled to London.
And although it has been widely assumed that this weekend’s domestic games will be postponed as a mark of respect, with the country set for seven days of mourning, His Majesty’s Government has confirmed the decision will ultimately be up to the various sporting bodies.
“There is no obligation to cancel or postpone events and sporting fixtures, or close entertainment venues during the National Mourning period,” read a statement from the Government. “This is at the discretion of individual organisations.
“As a mark of respect, organisations might wish to consider cancelling or postponing events or closing venues on the day of the State Funeral. They are under no obligation to do so and this is entirely at the discretion of individual organisations.”
While matches are expected to be rescheduled, the Premier League and Football League have yet to make an announcement, though one is expected before lunchtime today (Friday).
The Irish FA has already stated that matches in Northern Ireland will not take place as scheduled.
“As a mark of respect following the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, this weekend‘s fixtures across all affiliated football in Northern Ireland, and all other organised football activity, at all levels, have been postponed,” they said.
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