Will the Premier League Champion be Declared if the Season is Cancelled Due to Coronavirus?

The ongoing pandemic has brought unprecedented challenges to the sports world, with many leagues struggling to find a solution when it comes to season cancellations. The English Premier League (EPL) is no exception. Here, we will explore the potential scenarios in case the season is cancelled and the implications for declaring a champion.

Current Standings and Return to Play

As of now, Liverpool is atop the EPL table with 82 points, a significant margin over Manchester City, which currently sits in second place with 57 points. The EPL plans to return around June 13th, but the path to recovery is far from clear. Training is set to resume sooner rather than later, but the future remains uncertain.

Championship Possibilities

Fans and observers are divided on how the championship would be declared if the season is cancelled. The most likely scenario, and what many would hope for, is for the EPL to resume and complete the remaining matches. In this case, Liverpool would likely secure the title based on their current lead. However, even with a slim margin, Manchester City still has the opportunity to catch up, given that they have 10 matches remaining and the potential to accumulate 30 more points. This would likely keep the championship race alive until the end.

Cancelled Season Implications

If the season is indeed cancelled, the implications for the champions would be significant. UEFA, the governing body for European football, would have the final say on how to handle the situation. Several other leagues have faced similar dilemmas, and their decisions provide some insights:

Dutch Eredivisie: The top two divisions were both cancelled, with both AZ Alkmaar and Ajax on the same points. This led to a situation where no clear champion could be declared. Belgian League: Despite Club Brugge being 15 points ahead with only one match left, the league was also cancelled, and Club Brugge was declared the champion despite the irregularity.

UEFA's Role and European Qualifications

UEFA will play a crucial role in how the EPL's future unfolds. The decision to cancel the season would undoubtedly cause a significant uproar among fans and players, as Liverpool's title hopes hinge on a few points. UEFA must consider the overarching fairness and impact on all teams vying for European places.

Community Responses and Future Plans

The community is divided on the matter. Many fans hope for a resolution where the EPL can still be contested, while others accept the reality that a cancellation is probable. The decision to continue the season, or to cancel it, will undoubtedly shape the upcoming season and the sporting landscape in the coming years.

Conclusion

While the EPL plans to return with hope and optimism, the future remains uncertain. The potential cancellation of the season and the lack of a clear champion would cause significant disruption, particularly for teams like Liverpool. UEFA must balance the immediate concerns with the long-term implications for all teams involved. Only time will tell how the EPL will navigate this unprecedented challenge.