Sports organizations postpone, suspend, cancel events following death of Queen Elizabeth II

Empty+soccer+stadium+in+wales.

BruceW. (Flickr)

Empty soccer stadium in wales.

Alex Keeler, Reporter

As Great Britain continues to mourn the passing of Queen Elizabeth II, numerous sporting events throughout the UK were either suspended or canceled in respect of the passing of the beloved English monarch. 

Organizers of the BMW PGA Championship golf event reacted quickly in response to the Queen’s death by immediately suspending play from Thursday morning throughout Friday night. Many of the participants were already on the course when it was announced that play was suspended. 

Administrators for cycling’s Tour of Britain decided to cancel Friday’s leg of the race as well as the other legs that were scheduled to take place over the weekend. As a result, Gonzalo Serrano, who led the race throughout Thursday, was declared the winner of the event.  

Perhaps the UK’s most notable league, the Premier League, followed suit with other organizations by suspending play throughout the weekend and into next week.  

Games that are scheduled to kickoff next weekend could also be subject to postponement, as the Queen’s funeral is expected to be around that time. 

The Premier League released a statement shortly after the announcement of the Queen’s passing, showing respect for the royal family. 

“The Premier League is deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Her Majesty the Queen, Elizabeth II,” the statement read. “Our thoughts and condolences are with The Royal Family and everyone around the world mourning the loss of Her Majesty.” 

Many well-renown British athletes paid their respects via twitter upon hearing the news, including two-time world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury. 

“Thoughts & prayers with my Queen tonight, may god be with you,” Fury tweeted on Thursday following her passing. 

Tottenham Hotspur soccer star and current captain of England’s national team Harry Kane was also quick to send his condolences via social media. 

“My thoughts are with the Royal Family at this very difficult time. The Queen was an amazing inspiration and will be remembered for her incredible years of service to this country. Rest in peace, Your Majesty.”