UCL: UEFA rejects request to play God Save the King anthem
UEFA has rejected requests from Chelsea, Manchester City and Rangers to play the national anthem before Wednesday’s Champions League matches.
The three British clubs are understood to have made requests to play God Save the King following a period of silence in memory of Queen Elizabeth II.
However, it is understood some supporters will defy this move, with Rangers fans expected to pay tribute to The Queen and sing the anthem before kick-off at Ibrox.
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UEFA, who had already decided against playing its Champions League anthem, said “There will be no anthems played this also includes the UEFA Champions League anthem on the basis of maintaining a consistent pre-match ceremony with a subdued atmosphere and without any celebratory activities across all UK venues to show respect as we did last Thursday.”
Only Rangers supporters will be in attendance for their match against Napoli which was moved from Tuesday to Wednesday due to policing resources, with no away fans being permitted at the match in Naples too for sporting integrity.
Across all Champions League matches involving UK clubs, players will wear black armbands in memory of The Queen and take part in a moment of silence.