SPFL announce Premiership clubs will offer 'virtual season tickets' after Sky Sports agreement

The measures are in place with games expected to take place behind closed doors

SPFL Chief Executive Neil Doncaster has announced streaming plans for Premiership clubs. Picture: SNS

Fans of Scottish Premiership clubs will have the option to buy a ‘virtual season ticket’ which will allow them to watch all their team’s home games for the 2020/21 campaign.

The SPFL hope to begin the new Premiership season at the start of August when the new five-year broadcasting deal with Sky Sports begins.

Up to 48 games will be shown live each season by the broadcaster.

Games are likely to be played behind closed doors for a sustained period due to physical distancing measures, meaning the only way fans can watch games will be via Sky Sports or a ‘virtual season ticket’ which will be sold by clubs.

It will allow clubs to bring in crucial revenue.

Some teams in the Premiership have already sold thousands of season tickets for the 2020/21 campaign, with access likely to be granted through the brief.

The SPFL chief executive Neil Doncaster said: “This is an innovative and pragmatic solution to the challenges posed by Covid-19 and I’m grateful for the flexibility shown by our clubs and by Sky Sports.

“This agreement means that any liability for games not delivered during Season 2019/20 has now been settled, on terms that reflect Sky’s status as a committed partner and supporter of Scottish football.”

Rob Webster, Managing Director of Sky Sports, said: “Sky Sports is proud of our long-standing relationship with Scottish football and we have been committed to finding a positive solution for the SPFL and clubs. The virtual season ticket for the 2020/21 season is an innovative way to maintain the connection with fans and provide economic stability for the clubs, and we are very happy to support it.

“The new season promises to be a unique experience for the Scottish Premiership and our approach is to be as flexible and supportive of the clubs as we can be in these unique times.”

The SPFL have also confirmed that they have agreed a financial settlement with Sky Sports for games unable to be completed from the 2019/20 season. It will be spread across the broadcasting deal.