This archive report was first published on 12 May 2020.
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to disrupt the sports world, Premier League clubs are facing a significant financial challenge. According to reports, they may have to pay a massive refund to broadcasters if they manage to complete the season behind closed doors.
The BBC reported that the English top-flight could face a bill of £340 million ($420 million, Sh42 billion) if they complete the season without fans in attendance. This is due to the lack of atmosphere in empty stadiums and the fact that broadcasters would be reimbursed for matches not being played as scheduled.
"Whatever happens, there's going to be significant loss of revenue for clubs. That is inevitable," said Premier League CEO Richard Masters. "We were able to update our clubs today on our situation with broadcasters, which is obviously confidential."
However, the rebate to broadcasters would surge to an estimated £760 million if the season cannot be completed. Masters has previously warned of a £1 billion loss once the absence of gate receipts is taken into account.
Despite the challenges, the Premier League is working towards a return to action. New government guidelines have paved the way for elite sport to return behind closed doors in England from June 1. However, England internationals Raheem Sterling and Danny Rose have raised concerns over a return to contact sport when the rest of society is being advised to follow social-distancing guidelines.
"The moment we do go back it just needs to be a moment where it's not just for footballing reasons, it's safe for not just us footballers but the whole medical staff, referees," Sterling told his YouTube channel. "(I am) not scared, but reserved and thinking what the worst outcome could be."
British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has said that the return of sport on TV would "provide a much-needed boost to national morale." However, a YouGov poll revealed that 73 percent of 2,000 people surveyed said the return of the Premier League and English Football League would not lift their spirits.
