Queen Elizabeth II, the longest-reigning monarch in British history, has died at the age of 96.
She was placed under medical supervision at Balmoral — the royal family’s estate in Aberdeenshire, Scotland — on September 8 after doctors expressed concern for her health. Her death was announced later that day.
The news prompted the enaction of Operation London Bridge (known through the code phrase ‘London Bridge Is Down’): a pre-determined plan for the procedures immediately after the Queen’s passing. A period of national mourning is expected to be announced as matters such as the funeral and the ascension to the throne of Charles, the Queen’s eldest son, are arranged.
Sporting events are facing postponement during this time as a mark of respect towards the monarch, who reigned from 1952 and celebrated her platinum jubilee this February.
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Is Premier League football cancelled when the Queen dies?
Following the death of Queen Elizabeth II, it is anticipated that a national period of mourning will be declared. It is likely that some businesses and services will suspend activities during that time, and sport is expected to do likewise.
After the news was confirmed, some clubs, competitions and media outlets ceased social media activity as a mark of respect after posting statements of condolence. FC Zurich and Arsenal players stood for a minute’s silence around the centre-circle after emerging for the second half of their UEFA Europa League match in Switzerland.
The Premier League issued a statement on Friday to announce that all matches taking place between September 10 and 12 have been postponed.
As a mark of respect to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, this weekend’s Premier League match round will be postponed.
— Premier League (@premierleague) September 9, 2022
The rest of England’s Football League, as well as non-league competitions, followed suit in an announcement by the FA.
Scotland’s SPFL could do likewise, along with competitions in Wales. All football in Northern Ireland has been postponed over the weekend.
The news of the Queen’s death came approximately 90 minutes before Manchester United were scheduled to play Real Sociedad in the Europa League at Old Trafford.
As a mark of respect to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, English football has united to postpone all football fixtures this weekend. pic.twitter.com/k6bqNu6arf
— The FA (@FA) September 9, 2022
It was confirmed that the game would be going ahead, with a minute’s silence to precede kickoff. West Ham United’s UEFA Europa Conference League game against FCSB at London Stadium was also confirmed to be on.
“Manchester United shares the sorrow of the entire nation following the announcement from Buckingham Palace on the passing of Her Majesty, The Queen,” said the club via a 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.
Manchester United shares the sorrow of the entire nation following the announcement from Buckingham Palace on the passing of Her Royal Highness The Queen Elizabeth II. pic.twitter.com/QwLRZ9z4yf
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) September 8, 2022
“Everyone connected with Manchester United joins the wider football family in sending our deepest condolences and heartfelt sympathy to The Royal Family.
“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.”
Queen Elizabeth II dies: Premier League Matchday 7 postponed, full list of sports, fixtures off
The Sporting News will update this list with the confirmed postponements of competitions, matches and events.
Football
Premier League: This weekend’s Premier League match round will be postponed, including Monday evening’s game between Leeds and Nottingham Forest.
Championship: Burnley vs. Norwich City postponed; further announcement due on Sep. 9
League Two: Tranmere Rovers vs. Stockport County postponed; further announcement due on Sep. 9
National League: All games scheduled for the weekend in the National League system, as well as FA Trophy and grassroots fixtures, will not take place.
Women’s Super League: The opening weekend of the WSL has been postponed.
Scotland: The Scottish FA, SPFL, SWPL and Highland & Lowland Leagues have agreed to suspend all matches.
Northern Ireland: All football scheduled for the weekend of September 10 is cancelled.
Boxing
Claressa Shields vs. Savannah Marshall: The world title fight had been scheduled for September 10 but has now been rescheduled to October 15.
Golf
BMW PGA Championship: Play suspended
Cycling
Tour of Britain: Race ended
Rugby
Gallagher Premiership: Bristol vs. Bath moved to 5.30pm BST on Saturday. An update will be issued on Sale vs. Northampton, with the other games on Saturday and Sunday going ahead and observing a one-minute silence beforehand.
Friendly: Glasgow vs. Ulster cancelled
Cricket
Test: England vs. South Africa suspended
Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy: Fixtures postponed on September 9
Horse racing
Doncaster, Chestow, Sandown, Salisbury: Meetings on September 9 cancelled.
No meetings will be held on Saturday but racing will return on Sunday - except at Musselburgh - with the running of the St Leger.