Chinese rights holders have notified the Premier League they will not broadcast English top-class games this weekend due to the league’s support for Ukraine.
China is a close political partner of Russia, which has stormed Ukraine.
The Premier League has stated it ‘wholeheartedly rejects Russia’s actions’ and is ready to show harmony with Ukraine.
While declaring its plans earlier this week it appended, “We call for peace and our thoughts are with all those who have been impacted.”
That will count captains wearing special armbands in Ukrainian colours, whilst stadium screens will display ‘Football Stands Together’ preceding the country’s blue and yellow flag.
Fans have also been motivated to join ‘a moment of reflection and solidarity before kick-off at each game.’
When queried regarding the Chinese denial to show matches, the Premier League refused to comment.
The Premier League rights in China are occupied by iQiyi Sports which took over last year following the end of a deal with PPTV.
