Czech football to return on 25th May

The regular phase of the Czech Republic top flight will resume on 25th May without fans, after a 10-week break because of the coronavirus, with the possibility of the competition being extended until July, the league announced on Tuesday.

The Czech League was disrupted on Matchday 24 with six rounds remaining, with Slavia Prague leading on 58 points, followed by Viktoria Pilzen on 50 and Jablonec on 40. Tournament boss Dusan Svoboda wants to maintain the format that has been in place since the 2018-19 season, with the regular 30-round round being followed by a three-group stage: the top six teams fighting for the title; the next four teams to qualify for the Europa League; and the bottom six to fight or survival.

If it is agreed to maintain this format, a decision that will be taken on 12th May, the season would be extended until July, but for this to happen, the consensus of the league's board is needed, in which the 16 First Division teams and another 16 Second Division teams are represented. Professional sportsmen have been able to train again from April 20th, in small groups in open-air facilities, and keeping a safe distance.