Scottish independence: How Yes vote affects sport

HOW A ‘Yes’ vote in Scotland would affect the face of British sport:

Sir Craig Reedie says there is uncertainty over whether there is time for an independent Scotland to be recognised ahead of the 2016 Olympics in Rio. Picture: TSPL

Olympics

Scottish athletes who have previously represented Britain would have to make a choice which country to represent - a potentially tricky problem if they are part of a pair such as sailing or rowing.

Sir Craig Reedie, the Scot who is Britain’s most senior figure in Olympic sport, says there is uncertainty over whether there is time for an independent Scotland to be recognised ahead of the 2016 Olympics in Rio.

Funding

UK Sport supports a large number of athletes in Scotland but there remains uncertainty over what would happen to their Lottery funding in the event of independence. The Scottish government are arguing fiercely that it should be transferred in full to SportScotland.

Football

The separation of the leagues already exists but independence would see Scotland no longer one of the British home nations - they currently have the privilege of electing a FIFA vice-president and being part of the law-making body, the International FA Board.

Independence would also permanently shut the door on Celtic and Rangers’ hopes of one day joining the Premier League.

Rugby union

Scotland already competes separately so there would be little serious change but the British and Irish Lions would consider a name change to simply ‘The Lions’.

Tennis

Britain’s Davis Cup team could be left without their star player in the event of independence. Andy Murray has said he would represent Scotland in the Olympics but has also said he is proud to be both Scottish and British.

Golf

The Open rotates between England and Scotland but the Royal and Ancient say the vote will not affect its rota.