Rangers’ match with Old Firm rivals Celtic at Ibrox this weekend has been postponed as the SPFL put a halt to Scottish footballing fixtures “until further notice”.
The move comes amid serious growing fears about the coronavirus and how it can spread amongst large crowds.
Initially, the fixture card was expected to go ahead in Scotland, but now the SPFL have followed the lead of football associations from across Europe.
“As everyone knows, this is a fast-moving and unprecedented situation for the entire country,” said Neil Doncaster, SPFL chief executive [SPFL].
“We have been in intensive and detailed discussions since last night and have also been taking on board the experience of our counterparts in England and across Europe.
“As a result, the board of the SPFL has agreed this morning that all league fixtures this weekend and next midweek will be postponed until further notice.
“The health and safety of fans, players and officials is absolutely paramount.
“We have not yet had any confirmed cases of Coronavirus amongst players in Scotland, but, given the nature of this outbreak, it seems only a matter of time.
“We realise that many people will be bitterly disappointed, and we would obviously prefer to be in a position where we can continue as normal, but that’s neither realistic nor possible.”
The decision to postpone the fixture comes after English football released a statement announcing its intention to halt matches until April 4th at the very least [Premier League].
UEFA has also decided to postpone its Champions League and Europa League matches next week [UEFA], which means Rangers travel to Leverkusen for the return leg against the Bundesliga club.
