China to block EPL broadcast over Ukraine protest

China is reportedly considering suspending Premier League TV broadcasts this weekend to blocking planned show of support for Ukraine

As first reported by the BBC, China’s actions come as a result of the top-flight’s plans to demonstrate a further show of solidarity with Ukraine following the invasion of the country by Russia.

China has denounced economic sanctions that have been imposed by the UK and the EU against Russia and blamed the US and its allies for provoking Moscow.

And now they plan to show further support for Vladimir Putin’s regime with Chinese streaming platform iQIYI backing out of showing this weekend’s fixtures in the English top-flight.

Captains of all 20 Premier League clubs will wear special armbands in Ukrainian colours with fans encouraged to join players, managers, match officials and club staff in a moment of reflection and solidarity before kick-off.

The large screens at grounds will display ‘Football Stands Together’ against a blue and yellow backdrop, matching the colours of the Ukrainian flag.

The words will also be shown on LED perimeter boards during games, which start with Leicester against Leeds at 12:30pm on Saturday through to Monday night’s fixture between Tottenham and Everton.

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Additionally, the message of solidarity will be visible to fans around the world across Premier League digital channels. The Logos and profiles on those platforms will change to represent the colours of the Ukrainian flag.

China however was among the 35 countries which abstained from voting earlier this week at a UN General Assembly for a non-binding resolution that ‘demands’ Russia ‘immediately’ withdraw from Ukraine.