Sport minister to discuss phased return with key figures in Scottish sport

  • Published
Joe FitzpatrickImage source, SNS
Image caption,

Joe Fitzpatrick will hold a virtual meeting next week

Sports minister Joe Fitzpatrick has invited key figures within Scottish sport to discuss a phased return of events.

Playing behind closed doors while coronavirus measures remain in place will be discussed on 5 May.

Fitzpatrick hopes to meet virtually with the Scottish FA, the SPFL, Scottish Rugby and Sportscotland.

First minister Nicola Sturgeon has said matches behind closed doors are not impossible but unlikely anytime soon.

The UK government has held talks with major sporting organisations in England with a view to a resumption of sport.

Professional football and rugby have been suspended since last month because of the virus pandemic while the Olympics has been postponed until summer 2021.

The SFA and SPFL have formed six "sub-groups" to support the restarting of Scottish football, which will be done in line with Scottish government and chief medical officer advice.

Meanwhile, St Mirren say, external the 2019-20 season "should be terminated immediately" for supporter safety and the survival of Scottish clubs.

The Championship and Leagues One and Two were ended early and titles awarded to the teams leading those divisions.

The Premiership may also be declared over while Uefa has given European leagues until 25 May to tell them whether they want to complete or cancel the season.

St Mirren believe cancelling the top flight "will allow for end of season payments to be made and for clubs to start to plan as best they can for next season".