SPL start date set for 4 August in 2012

The current campaign began on 23 July but the start date for next term has been returned to August.

No decision has yet been made regarding a winter break or a protocol to allow clubs to participate in summer tournaments or friendlies.

The start of the 2011-2012 SPL campaign was the earliest ever, designed to boost attendances and help those clubs involved in the qualifying phases for European competition.

However, in the first three rounds of SPL fixtures, clubs were able to postpone a match, allowing them to fulfil engagements in friendly competitions.

The July start date was also implemented to reduce the number of midweek fixtures during the winter.

The Barclays Premier League have planned to delay their start date until after the London 2012 Olympic Games, which open on 27 July and run until 12 August. Hampden Park will host some matches in the Olympic football tournament, but the final fixture scheduled there is on Friday, 3 August, 2012.