Considerable uncertainty surrounds the outcome of this year’s Championship competition after a decision on charges brought against Queen’s Park Rangers over the Faurlin affair was delayed. It had originally been intended to come to a decision by 4 p.m. on Friday, but an outcome is not now likely until Monday. The club will still receive the Championship trophy on Saturday.
Considerable uncertainty surrounds the outcome of this year’s Championship competition after a decision on charges brought against Queen’s Park Rangers over the Faurlin affair was delayed. It had originally been intended to come to a decision by 4 p.m. on Friday, but an outcome is not now likely until Monday. The club will still receive the Championship trophy on Saturday.
Given that the investigation began last September, one might ask why it has been take so long. However, the independent QC in charge of the tribunal wanted to give all parties sufficient time to prepare their case. The complexity of the matter is such that the tribunal has not yet been able to come to a decision.
Should QPR be found guilty and, for example, suffer a points deduction that would place them in the play off positions, the play offs could be thrown into disarray. The matches might have to be delayed and ticketing arrangements would be disrupted, as would those of the police. There could even be further legal action.
There could also be consequences for clubs in other leagues. Cash strapped Plymouth Argyle are expecting a £600,000 payment for a player (Jamie Mackie) that is contingent on QPR’s promotion. (Some reports have said that the sum is £400,000, but the BBC is quoting £600,000. In either event, a small proportion would go to Exeter City from where the player originally came).
My guess is that QPR will get a heavy fine and a nominal points deduction that would still see them automatically promoted.