Premier League clubs are set to miss out on tens of millions in prize money due to this summer’s International Champions Cup being cancelled amid the coronavirus pandemic.
Teams have pocketed up to £16m for taking part in the pre-season tournament each year since it began in 2013, with Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur among the previous winners.
No Premier League clubs had been named for the 2020 edition yet, though a number were expected to take part after Arsenal, Manchester United and Spurs all competed last year.
A match between Barcelona and Real Madrid in Las Vegas was among the highlights expected this year and both clubs are expected to miss out on €18m due to the cancellation.
The ongoing spread of COVID-19 across the United States and the lockdown measures in place in China, another host country, have made it impossible to host the International Champions Cup this summer.
It has become the latest in a number of summer tournaments to be cancelled after Euro 2020, Copa America, Olympics and Wimbledon were all postponed.
The women’s edition of the International Champions Cup is yet to be postponed, but organisers Relevent Sports issued a statement to cancel the men's edition.
“We are heartbroken for the thousands who have succumbed to the awful Covid-19 disease, and our thoughts are with everyone who’s been impacted during this difficult time," CEO Daniel Sillman said.
“The health and safety of players, staff, fans, and all who are involved in our matches is always paramount.
“The lack of clarity of when social distancing and shelter-in-place restrictions will be lifted and the uncertain international football calendar with the potential for European domestic leagues and UEFA tournaments being played into August, means planning a men’s International Champions Cup this summer is unfeasible.
“We look forward to bringing the best clubs and most iconic matchups in the world to the U.S. and Asia in 2021.”
