Premier League fixtures could be postponed following the death of Queen Elizabeth II on Thursday, however, sporting governing bodies are under ‘no obligation’ to cancel matches following the sad news.
The Queen passed away on Thursday afternoon and UEFA deemed it too late to postpone United’s first match in the Europa League this season, which resulted in a 1-0 defeat to Real Sociedad at Old Trafford.
Both teams wore black armbands and a minutes’ silence was respected before kick-off for the late Queen.
The UK is now entering a period of national mourning and with that exists question marks over this week’s Premier League fixtures – as well as other sporting events.
However, official guidance issued by the UK Government relating to the period of mourning ahead states there is no obligation for sporting bodies to cancel fixtures – but they are encouraged to rearrange events should they fall on the day of the Queen’s funeral.
It read (via The Mirror): “There is no obligation to cancel or postpone events and sporting fixtures, or close entertainment venues during the National Mourning period. 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.
“If sporting fixtures or events are planned for the day of the State Funeral, organisations may want to adjust the event timings so they do not clash with the timings of the funeral service and associated processions.
“As a mark of respect, and in keeping with the tone of National Mourning, organisers may wish to hold a period of silence and/or play the National Anthem at the start of events or sporting fixtures, and players may wish to wear black armbands.”
The funeral could put United’s home game against Leeds in doubt, but we await confirmation on that before passing further comment.
Tonight’s EFL fixtures were already postponed.
United are scheduled to face Crystal Palace on Sunday.