SFA move to begin talks on Hampden buy-out plan

THE SFA have approached Queen’s Park to begin talks about potentially buying Hampden as they continue to examine the future of the national stadium. The governing body currently lease Hampden to stage highprofile cup and international matches, as well as housing their offices. That deal expires after Euro 2020 and alternatives are being explored. Last month, an SFA board meeting rejected proposals to use Celtic Park or Ibrox and instead narrowed the choice to either staying at Hampden or moving key games to Murrayfield. Queen’s Park have now confirmed they have been approached to ask whether they would discuss selling their ground, which has doubled as the home of Scottish football for more than a century. The amateur League One club

have not ruled out that possibility and briefed their members about the development at a specially-convened meeting last night. SFA sources have stressed, however, that the ownership talks would be aimed at exploring the pros and cons of only one possible outcome, albeit an important one. A variety of further options for both Hampden and Murrayfield remain on the table and will be subject to similar scrutiny ahead of final proposals being considered in the summer or early autumn. Queen’s Park have also underlined that no detailed talks have been held yet and that multiple and complex issues would need to be addressed. ‘We have a long and proud history in Scottish football and that includes being the owners of the first, second and third Hampden Parks,’ said a Queen’s Park spokesperson. ‘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 it is 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 inform how the club moves forward.’ An SFA spokesperson said: ‘The Scottish FA board met last month to review the opportunities available beyond the term of the existing lease for the use of Hampden Park, which expires in 2020. ‘It was decided to progress two options: remaining at Hampden Park and moving to BT Murrayfield. ‘We are now working with all key stakeholders to consider the strategic, financial, operational and supporter-related aspects of each option with a view to making a decision later this year.’