Manchester City has received a £2.09m penalty from the Premier League for 22 cases of delaying match kick-offs or restarts.
The club has acknowledged the penalty, which pertains to rule violations over the last two seasons, as confirmed by the league. This matter is unrelated to the 115 accusations currently facing City regarding alleged infringements of the league’s financial regulations.
A statement from the Premier League stated: “The Premier League and Manchester City FC have reached a sanction agreement after the club admitted to breaching Premier League Rule L.33 concerning kick-off and restart obligations.”
City’s penalties have been assessed on a graduated scale based on each violation. The first penalty, a one minute and 18 seconds delay for the second half kick-off against Crystal Palace in August 2022, resulted in a warning. Subsequent infractions have incurred fines ranging from £10,000 to £200,000. The most significant delay recorded was two minutes and 46 seconds at the beginning of the final match against West Ham last season, during which City secured their fourth consecutive title.
The statement continued: “Rules governing kick-offs and restarts are essential for maintaining the organizational integrity of the competition at the highest professional standard, providing certainty for fans and participating clubs.”
“They also ensure that the broadcast of all 380 League matches globally proceeds on schedule.”
While City has not made a direct comment, the ruling indicated: “The club has expressed regret for the acknowledged breaches … and has confirmed it has reminded its players and football management teams of their obligations under Rule L.33.”
