What happens to Premier League matches after the death of Queen Elizabeth II?
Arsenal were in Europa League action at the time of the Queen’s passing and held a minute’s silence with FC Zurich.
Queen Elizabeth II, the UK’s longest-serving monarch, has passed away at the age of 96.
Europa League matches involving English sides are currently underway but there is uncertainty around this weekend’s Premier League fixtures.
Arsenal were in Europa League action at the time of the Queen’s passing and held a minute’s silence with FC Zurich as they made their way back onto the pitch after half-time.
Discussions ongoing over fixtures
Discussions are currently ongoing with the Government regarding whether this weekend’s football fixtures will go ahead.
“Consideration in respect of EFL fixtures will be discussed with the Government and the wider sport sector during the period ahead and an appropriate announcement will be made at the earliest opportunity,” the EFL said on Thursday.
West Ham’s Europa Conference League match against FCSB is also going ahead as planned on Thursday.
Clubs release statements
Manchester United, who take on Real Sociedad tonight in the Europa League, released a statement after the passing of the Queen on Thursday.
“Manchester United shares the sorrow of the entire nation following the announcement from Buckingham Palace on the passing of Her Majesty, The Queen,” the Premier League outfit said in an official statement.
“The club recognises her immense contribution to public life, including sport, both here in the United Kingdom, across the Commonwealth, and around the world.
“Everyone connected with Manchester United joins the wider football family in sending our deepest condolences and heartfelt sympathy to The Royal Family.”
Minute’s silence for The Queen
“Following direction from the FA and UEFA, tonight’s UEFA Europa League fixture against Real Sociedad will take place as planned at Old Trafford.
“A minute’s silence will be held before kick-off which will allow the teams, match officials and everyone in attendance to pay their respects to Her Majesty, The Queen. Both teams will wear black armbands and the flags at Old Trafford will fly at half-mast as a sign of our utmost respect,” United confirmed.
Golf at Wentworth suspended
Golf at the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth was suspended when news broke of the Queen’s death on Thursday evening and no play will take place on Friday, with the golf and practice facilities remaining closed.
The England and Wales Cricket Board have announced that there will be no play on Friday at the third Test match between England and South Africa at The Oval. The ECB said they would announce updates on further postponements ‘in due course’.