Celtic vs Inverness CT in June 3’s Scottish Cup Final will NOT be broadcast to a UK-wide audience after its controversial 5:30pm kick-off move.
The decision to change the kick-off time from 3pm – that would have clashed with the FA Cup between Man United and Man City – has caused uproar and ScotRail have been forced to put on special services so some Inverness fans can get home post-match. Scottish FA chief executive Ian Maxwell admitted in recent broadcast interviews that it wasn't an ideal scenario.
However, he did concede they "took the decision that the best thing was to delay the kick-off time to 5.30pm to give it the best opportunity to be seen across the UK". That looks likely to fall down, as BBC scheduling shows that they will broadcast GARDEN RESCUE instead of the Hampden showpiece, beginning at 5:35pm following the Wembley conclusion. BBC One Scotland's schedule for that date is not yet available.
It will also be broadcast by Viaplay, who have shared TV selections with the BBC. Celtic host Aberdeen in their final league match this Saturday before going to Hampden a week later.
Maxwell said recently: "The Scottish FA’s preference was absolutely for a 3pm kick-off time. We then had a decision to make about other sporting events at the time and we had conversations with broadcaster partners that we have.
“It was highlighted that to give them the spectacle that we wanted it to be and to get as much viewership as we can, it made sense to move the kick-off time to later on in the day.
“We are delighted that Inverness have worked as c loosely as they have with Scotrail and that means supporters can get down to the match and get home on the same day. Inverness were happier with a later kick-off time than an earlier one. It’s not ideal but I’m sure it will be a great spectacle.”
