Based on the decision of the Russian Football Union Executive Committee Bureau on 1 April, the Russian Premier Liga has extended the suspension of the RPL and the Youth Championship until 31 May.

"This decision was made taking into account the epidemiological situation and is necessary to combat the spread of COVID-19. We don't want to put the health of fans and all participants at risk,” said RPL President Sergey Pryadkin.

“At the moment, we do not plan for the early end of the championship and we want all clubs to be on equal terms when preparing for its possible resumption."

In the event of a ‘high alert’ warning being announced in Russia and further restrictions due to the epidemiological situation, the Russian Premier Liga will issue an additional message.

"We continue to work closely with all football regulators on all important issues. One of these issues is employment contracts with players and transfer contracts. This is a common problem for everyone without exception. We will carefully study the recommendations of the RFU, as well as of colleagues from FIFA, and together with the clubs, we will come to a consolidated, balanced decision.

“We see clubs and players abroad meeting each other halfway on the issue of temporary salary cuts. And I am glad that Russian clubs, using the example of Spartak Moscow, are also reaching a compromise with their players.

“We also understand the complexity of the situation for clubs in the context of licensing, so together with our colleagues from the RFU, we have reached an agreement in principle to postpone the completion date. When choosing new terms, we will be guided by the recommendations of UEFA and will make a further announcement in due course," said Pryadkin.