Court decision could have huge impact on SPFL’s future

A current pending court decision could have huge implications for the SPFL which called Celtic champions after suspension.

The SPFL called the Scottish football season complete after determining that it would no longer be viable to restart after the novel coronavirus forced a suspension months ago. As such, Celtic were crowned champions for the ninth consecutive season, and Hearts has been relegated.

However, a new court case in France could pave the way for Scottish clubs to air their grievances about perceived injustices due to the early completion of the league. Some clubs, mainly those facing relegation, would have liked the chance to play out the remaining matches in order to potentially avoid relegation and the lost revenue that would come with moving to the second tier.

Since the English Premier League has decided to return in mid-June, along with Bundesliga already in play, this has led to some clubs in other leagues being unhappy. French-side Lyon has taken to the court system to try and have Ligue 1 restarted. While the petition was denied, both Amiens and Toulouse have had their relegation suspended.

This is notable because it is possible, based on the outcome in France, that Scottish clubs (aka Hearts) could attempt the same action and have a leg to stand on. As Celts Are Here has pointed out, this could cause a reconstruction to occur which mean a lot of drama, and a lot of money. Neither of which is in large supply.

This story line is worth following as it plays out in the French courts.