SPFL and SFA announce fixture decision following death of Queen Elizabeth II

The Scottish FA has confirmed this weekend’s fixtures will not go ahead as a period of mourning gets under way following the death of Queen Elizabeth II.

A decision was taken on Thursday evening to cancel Friday night’s live Championship encounter between Cove Rangers and Dundee as a mark of respect.

The decision to cancel the weekend’s action across the leagues, from the Premiership down to the Lowland League and Highland League as well as the SWPL, came after meetings between the Scottish FA, Scottish Professional Football League, Scottish Women’s Premier League, and Scottish Highland and Lowland Football Leagues.

It follows the English Premier League and Football League both postponing their fixture cards.

Rangers were due to travel to Pittodrie to face Aberdeen, while league leaders Celtic were scheduled to host Livingston in the Premiership tomorrow and Hearts to host St Mirren on the Sunday.

Rod Petrie, Scottish FA president said: “We spoke with our counterparts across the UK this morning and in discussions with our colleagues across the professional game in Scotland it was agreed that this was the appropriate step to take following the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

“We will work with our clubs and members in the meantime to ensure appropriate steps are taken throughout the period of mourning.”

The decision was taken despite guidance issues by the UK Government which stated “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”.

The SPFL has postponed fixtures this weekend. (Photo by Sammy Turner / SNS Group)

Neil Doncaster, chief executive of the SPFL, said: “Following consultation with the UK and Scottish Governments, the Scottish FA, our counterparts at the EPL and others, we confirm that all SPFL fixtures scheduled for this weekend will be postponed as a mark of respect.

“The passing of The Queen, a constant in our lives for 70 years, is a profound and momentous occasion. It is therefore appropriate that professional football marks this event with all possible solemnity.

“We will update clubs and supporters when we have clarity over official arrangements for Her Majesty’s funeral.”

New dates for the rescheduled matches will be announced in due course.