Premier League football was initially stopped until at least 30 April. But now authorities says it will not even resume at the beginning of May.
ADVERTISEMENTThe English Premier League will not resume at the beginning of May and has been suspended indefinitely amid the coronavirus pandemic.
Football in the UK was suspended earlier this month until at least 30 April.
But on Friday, football authorities said the 2019/20 season will only resume "when it was safe and appropriate to do so".
The Premier League said the "overriding priority is to aid the health and well-being of the nation and our communities, including players, coaches, managers, club staff and supporters".
English football authorities are working closely with the UK government and public agencies to reach a solution.
But the league once again stressed their wish for "all remaining domestic league and cup matches to be played" to maintain competition integrity.
"However, any return to play will only be with the full support of government and when medical guidance allows."
Financial implications for English football
All 20 Premier League clubs unanimously agreed to consult their players over a 30% pay cut to support the competition through the financial losses of the suspension.
A union meeting will be held to discuss this request further with players and clubs representatives on Saturday.
Measures will also be introduced to offer financial relief to clubs in the Football League and National League, with another unanimous vote deciding that £125 million (> €141 m) will be advanced throughout the football pyramid to support teams in the short term.
The Premier League will additionally commit £20 m (> €22 m) to support the UK's National Health System (NHS) and communities during the COVID-19 pandemic.
"The wide reach and appeal of the Premier League and our clubs will continue to be used to promote important public health messaging throughout this crisis", said the statement.
"The Premier League would like to reiterate that the thoughts of all our clubs are with all those directly affected by COVID-19."