UK media has this weekend reported that Premier League governance is reviewing plans to resume its current football season on 1 June, seeking a six-week period in which to complete proceedings.
1 June has been detailed as the Premier League’s ‘target date’, however, plans remain tentative as further COVID-19 developments unfold disrupting UK sports scheduling.
Premier League governance seeks a six-week period in which to play its remaining nine matchdays and further conclude the FA Cup, which is currently in its quarter-final phase.
In order to fulfil its tight timetable, the Premier League will play all matches behind closed doors and will require Public Health UK to sign-off on its schedule, allowing for emergency services to attend matches.
Last week, a joint statement issued by The FA and English football leagues confirmed that the postponement of all-levels of the professional play until Thursday 30 April.
UK media further reports that the Premier League may breach its £3 billion broadcasting contract with Sky Sports and BT Sport should it fail to conclude season 2019/2020 proceedings.
The Sun Sports and Daily Mail reported that the Premier League could face a £750 million legal battle attached to broadcaster fees and loss of earnings, should the league fail to be concluded by 1 August, the official start date for a new TV contract.
English football stakeholders will hold critical meetings this week to discuss further scheduling contingencies and COVID-19 developments.
Source: SBC News
