The Premier League has announced all fixtures in matchweek seven have been postponed following the passing of Queen Elizabeth II.
It was confirmed on Thursday evening that Her Majesty had passed away at Balmoral Castle, after a reign of over 70 years.
As such, all Premier League games scheduled for this weekend – along with EFL and WSL fixtures – have been called off.
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
A statement was posted to the Premier League’s official website confirmed the decision, in order to ‘honour her extraordinary life and contribution to the nation, and as a mark of respect’.
10 Premier League games have been postponed, ranging from Saturday’s early kick-off to Monday’s evening fixture.
What dates are available for rearranged games?
With the postponement occurring in an exceptionally busy season for football due to a winter World Cup taking place throughout November and December, the calendar is already incredibly congested.
Rearranging the postponed gameweek to take place before the end of 2022, then, seems rather unlikely, with European competitions and League Cup action also taking place and plenty of sides playing two games a week up until the World Cup commences.
The next available slot where the fixtures could be played is Tuesday 17 January and Wednesday 18 January 2023 – a midweek slot either side of two weekend rounds already scheduled.
How long will football matches be postponed for?
Statements confirming further postponements beyond this weekend’s action are yet to be announced, but it is anticipated that next weekend’s Premier League fixtures will also be called off.
With the United Kingdom entering a mourning period and the funeral expected to take place next weekend, it is likely that further postponements will occur in the Premier League and other competitions.
It means the WSL could have to wait another week to kick off their 2022/23 campaign, while the EFL could also face further postponements to deal with.