Scottish Premier League Rules

The Scottish Premier League (SPL) was implemented in May 1998. Formed as a "break-away" league from the Scottish Football League (SFL), the top 10 teams were selected from leading SFL officials to participate in this most elite football club. On Aug. 1, 1998, the first SPL competition took place ---- marking a most memorable event in Scottish football history.

  1. Membership

    • As of May 2010, the SPL consisted of 12 teams. All teams must be a member of the Scottish Football Association (SFA). Each team must have a home playing facility equipped to accommodate a minimum of 6,000 spectators and with proper winter weather protection.

    Competition

    • Each club must comply with the SPL schedule guidelines, including an even number of home and away games. At season's end, the team awarded the SPL championship trophy shall hold title until the conclusion of the following season.

    Players

    • All players to be considered must be registered as either amateur or professional. A completed contract of service must be submitted to the secretary for consideration. An official board reviews and approves all candidates for acceptance into the SPL.