LONDON: Premier League champions Chelsea have called off their victory parade on Sunday, saying it was “inappropriate” after the Manchester suicide bombing that left 22 dead and more than 60 wounded.

Antonio Conte’s side won the Premier League title and could claim the double by winning Saturday’s FA Cup at Wembley. Thousands of fans were expected to turn out for the parade.

English champions traditionally celebrate by driving through the city streets on an open top bus, with players holding trophies and waving to fans.

“In light of these tragic events, we feel it is inappropriate to go ahead with the victory parade in London on Sunday,” the club said in a statement.

“Given the heightened security threat announced by the (British) government, and recognising that this is a developing situation, we have given this careful consideration,” it said.

“We strongly believe, in the interests of everyone, this is the correct course of action. We are sure our fans will understand this decision.”

The club said black armbands would be worn by the players in Saturday’s final against Arsenal and that a donation would be made to a fund supporting the victims.

Arsenal followed suit — not in announcing a donation — but cancelling their planned screening of the final at the Emirates Stadium and ruled out a victory parade.

“As always, the safety of our supporters and staff is paramount and we are in close contact with security services,” Arsenal chief executive Ivan Gazidis said in a statement on the club website.

“After taking their advice we have reluctantly taken the decision to cancel the screening and potential parade. We are sorry for any disappointment this causes but it is in everyone’s best interests.”

Published in Dawn, May 25th, 2017