EXCLUSIVE: Premier League clubs agree to donate millions of pounds in humanitarian aid to Ukraine, while they will also vote to CANCEL their contract with Russian TV broadcaster
- Premier League clubs will decide how much to donate to Ukraine on Tuesday
- They will also vote to cancel their £6m television contract with Ramber Media
- Top-flight clubs have agreed to turn off the feed for this week’s matches
Premier League clubs have agreed to donate millions of pounds in humanitarian aid to Ukraine, with the exact sum to be agreed on Tuesday.
The donation is the most direct contribution yet from top-flight clubs to support those suffering as a result of the invasion, while they will also vote to cancel their £6million television contract in Russia with Ramber Media.
The Premier League opted to continue broadcasting matches in Russia last weekend, with pro-Ukraine messaging added into coverage in the hope of making a point to residents.
Premier League clubs will agree on Tuesday how much money to donate to Ukraine
But clubs have agreed to turn off the feed for this week’s matches, which begin with four games on Thursday. Okko Sport, a streaming platform that holds the rights in Russia, did not broadcast the pre-match displays of support for Ukraine, but a ‘Football Stands Together’ graphic was displayed over the match clock in the Manchester derby.
The FA and the EFL are also expected to scrap their TV deals in Russia.
The Premier League’s decision to insert political messaging into their international broadcast feed prompted a backlash from China, with rights holders iQIYI refusing to show matches.
The three-year, £120m deal with iQIYI only started this season, so losing the contract would be a significant financial blow to clubs. It is understood they have opted not to cancel it at present though and will see how the Chinese react to continuing support in the coming days.
Football continues to show their support for Ukraine following the invasion by Russia
There are concerns the minute’s applause will again be ignored by Chelsea fans who chanted the name of Roman Abramovich
The minute’s applause that was introduced last weekend will continue at Thursday’s matches, despite concerns that it will again be ignored by Chelsea fans, who pointedly chanted the name of Russian owner Roman Abramovich at Burnley on Saturday.
The Blues visit Norwich on Thursday and their leading supporters group on Monday echoed the words of manager Thomas Tuchel, who condemned the actions of the fans.
A Chelsea Supporters’ Trust spokesperson said: ‘The CST has been steadfast in support of the people of Ukraine. Singing Mr Abramovich’s name at that time was clearly inappropriate.’
Colchester United will donate all gate receipts from their League Two match against Forest Green Rovers on March 21 to aid efforts in Ukraine.
The Essex club are also seeking Football League permission to wear a yellow and blue kit, like Ukraine’s national team.
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