Queen Elizabeth II, the longest-reigning monarch in British history, has died aged 96.
On September 8, she was placed under medical supervision at Balmoral – the royal family’s estate in Aberdeenshire, Scotland – after doctors raised concerns about her health. His death was announced the same day.
The news led to the launch of Operation London Bridge (known by the code phrase “London Bridge Is Down”): a predetermined plan of action to immediately process the Queen’s death. A period of national mourning is expected to be declared while events such as the funeral and accession to the throne of Charles, the Queen’s eldest son, are organised.
Sporting events are also likely to be postponed during this period out of respect for the monarch, who has reigned since 1952 and celebrated her platinum jubilee in February 2022.
What happens to English football with the death of the Queen?
Following the death of Queen Elizabeth II, a period of national mourning is expected to be declared in the United Kingdom. Some businesses and services are likely to be disrupted during this time and sports are expected to do the same.
After the news was confirmed, some clubs, competitions and media outlets suspended their social media activity as a mark of respect after releasing statements of condolence. Zurich and Arsenal players observed a minute’s silence around the center circle after being sent off for the second half of their UEFA Europa League match in Switzerland.
The Premier League issued a terse statement following the news from Buckingham Palace, which read: “The Premier League is deeply saddened to learn of the death of Her Majesty The Queen, Elizabeth II. Our thoughts and condolences go out to the Royal Family and all who mourn the loss of Her Majesty.”. The league has not issued further instructions for the upcoming games, but it is expected that the schedule for the next two weeks could change.
The Premier League is deeply saddened to hear of the death of Her Majesty The Queen, Elizabeth II. Our thoughts and condolences are with the Royal Family and all around the world who are mourning the loss of Her Majesty. pic.twitter.com/UlaLXEOdke
– Premier League (@premierleague) September 8, 2022
The rest of the English Football League, as well as non-league competitions, are expected to follow a similar plan to the Premier League. The Scottish SPFL could do the same, along with the Welsh and Northern Irish competitions.
The EFL said: “The review of EFL fixtures will be discussed with government and the wider sporting sector over the next term and an appropriate announcement will be made as soon as possible.”
News of the Queen’s death came about 90 minutes before Manchester United were due to face Real Sociedad in the Europa League at Old Trafford. It has been confirmed that the match will go ahead and that a minute’s silence will be observed before kick-off. It has also been confirmed that West Ham’s UEFA Conference League match against FCSB at the London Stadium will go ahead.
“Manchester United shares the grief of the entire nation following Buckingham’s announcement of the death of Her Majesty The Queen”.The club said in a statement.
“The club recognizes his enormous contribution to public life, including sport, both here in the UK, in the Commonwealth and around the world.”
Manchester United share the grief of the entire nation following the announcement from Buckingham Palace of the death of Her Royal Highness 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 our sincere condolences to the Royal Family.”
“Following instructions from the FA and UEFA, tonight’s UEFA Europa League match against Real Sociedad will go ahead as scheduled at Old Trafford.”
“There will be a minute’s silence before kick-off for the teams, referees and everyone present to pay tribute to Her Majesty The Queen. Both teams will wear black armbands and Old Trafford flags will fly at half-staff as a mark of our utmost respect.’
All sporting events postponed due to death of Queen Elizabeth II
Sporting News will update this list with confirmed postponements of events, matches and events.
