The Football Supporters' Association have questioned the decision to postpone professional football following Queen Elizabeth II’s death. A statement from the Premier League this afternoon confirmed that no fixtures will take place to honour Her Majesty’s passing.
UK Government advice stated there was “no obligation” for sporting events to be cancelled. Decisions to cancel or postpone events would be left at the discretion of organisations - and not enforced by the state.
However, after discussions with the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, top-flight and EFL chiefs have decided to rearrange all games for a later date. Other sports, like cricket and rugby, will continue to be contested over the weekend.
READ MORE: Newcastle United pay tribute as Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II passes away age 96
The call has frustrated the FSA, who believe authorities have missed the perfect opportunity to pay tribute. In a statement, the organisation highlighted how cancelling games prevents supporters from honouring the monarch together.
The FSA statement read: “We believe football is at its finest when bringing people together at times of huge national significance – be those moments of joy or moments of mourning.
“Our view, which we shared with the football authorities, is that most supporters would have liked to go to games this weekend and pay their respect to the Queen alongside their fellow fans.
“Not everyone will agree, so there was no perfect decision for the football authorities, but many supporters will feel this was an opportunity missed for football to pay its own special tributes. As usual, the Football Supporters’ Association will be collating advice about supporters’ entitlements regarding expenses incurred relating to postponed games this weekend.”
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