Saudi Professional League facing up to five-month postponement because of coronavirus - reports

Sport360 staff 15:18 19/04/2020
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  • Bafetimbi Gomis (EPA).

    Coronavirus will have forced a five-month postponement of the Saudi Professional League after 2019/20’s tentative resumption date was set at August 15, according to reports.

    A full suspension of sporting activity was decreed in the Kingdom on March 14 in an attempt to curb the disease’s spread. This followed a decision, within a week of March 2’s first confirmed case in the country, to play the top flight behind closed doors.

    Arriyadiyah newspaper has stated that the 16 SPL clubs have been informed of the potential mid-August return in the wake of discussions between league organisers and the Saudi Arabian Football Federation. This process will require necessary approvals from the relevant authorities, plus be subject to continuous review and follow-ups.

    The Kingdom has registered 8,274 confirmed cases and 92 deaths since their first instance was registered.

    Al Hilal currently hold a six-point advantage over second-placed holders Al Nassr, with eight fixtures to fulfil. Al Adalah, Damac and Al Fateh sit in the relegation zone.

    The semi-finals and final of the King’s Cup also remain outstanding.

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