SFA keen on formal talks over possibility of buying Hampden

The SFA have entered into talks with Queen’s Park over the possibility of buying Hampden Park.

The Spiders – Scotland’s oldest football club – confirmed last night that they have been formally approached about selling the ground to the game’s governing body.

At present the SFA lease the 115-year-old stadium – home to their administration offices as well as those of the SPFL and other organisations – on a 20year deal that runs until 2020.

Plans from Celtic to use Celtic Park as the new home of Scottish football were ended after a detailed consultation last month, as were Rangers’ hopes of using Ibrox.

The SFA narrowed their choice down to staying at Hampden or using BT Murrayfield in Edinburgh and relocating their administration offices elsewhere.

Queen’s Park directors briefed members at a specially convened meeting last night and are now discussing their options – one of which is selling Hampden.

A club spokesperson confirmed they had not ruled out the possibility of selling their home, but added that giving up ownership would be an “extremely difficult decision to make”.

“We have a long and proud history in Scottish football and that includes being the owners of the first, second and third Hampden Parks. No one can take that away from us.

“Scottish football has changed since we were formed in 1867 and from when we moved into the existing Hampden in 1903, so perhaps this is the time to look at a new ownership model for the national stadium.”

“The request from the SFA was presented to members of our club last night.

“Their responses will help decide how the club moves forward.”

Hampden has been Queen’s Park’s home since 1903.