Coronavirus in Scotland: No cash handouts from league if games are played behind closed doors

Games in Europe are being played behind closed doors, including Wednesday night's Champions League match between Paris Saint-Germain and Borussia Dortmund. Picture: UEFA via Getty Images)

Warning of ‘dire financial consequences’

Clubs have been warned not to expect extra cash handouts from the Scottish Professional Football League if they are forced to play games behind closed doors because of the coronavirus.

So far Hampden bosses have resisted calls to follow the lead set by a number of European nations and order matches to be played without fans. But on Tuesday, SPFL chiefs advised their members to “examine their insurance arrangements” in case they are forced to take action to help combat the spread of the virus.

Banning fans from stadiums would present a major blow to Scotland’s clubs, who are heavily reliant on their income through the gate. And now league bosses have cautioned that they will not be able to help out clubs in distress after insisting they have no spare funds to dish out.

In a statement, a spokesperson for the SPFL said: “Of course, we will implement any instructions from the Chief Medical Officer for Scotland, as public health remains the overwhelming priority.

“We have already made clear publicly and to the Scottish Government that there will be dire financial consequences for our clubs if matches are played behind closed doors or cancelled.

“We have written to all clubs advising them to examine their insurance arrangements in case of matches being affected. This is particularly important as the SPFL does not hold reserves. Every single penny of income from sponsorships, broadcast deals and cup revenue is already paid to the clubs as fees.”