All football activity postponed as mark of respect
Rugby and Hockey also called off
Last updated 9th Sep 2022
All football has been called off in Northern Ireland this weekend, following the passing of Queen Elizabeth II.
The longest-reigning monarch in British history, died yesterday at the age of 96.
This evening's Northern Ireland Football League (NIFL) matches between Cliftonville and Glentoran and Larne and Dungannon Swifts were called off within hours of the news breaking.
NIFL released the following statement this morning:
"Following a directive from the Irish FA, as a mark of respect following the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, this weekend‘s fixtures across the NI Football League and affiliated football in Northern Ireland, and all other organised football activity, at all levels, have been postponed."
The announcement comes after Ulster Rugby's pre-season clash with Glasgow in Scotstoun, scheduled for tonight, was also called off.
Ulster Hockey have also cancelled all activity.
A statement on their website reads: "As a mark of respect following the passing of Her Majesty the Queen Elizabeth II, all hockey in Ulster is postponed with immediate effect until further notice.
"Ulster Hockey will make an announcement in due course regards the return to hockey following on from the period of national mourning in line with national protocols.
Our thoughts go to the Royal Family and all of those affected by these sad events."
Read more:
Queen Elizabeth II's death: What happens next?
Local people pay respects to the Queen at Hillsborough Castle gates
The Queen and her many Prime Ministers