The English Premier League has officially confirmed the schedule for the highly anticipated 2025/26 season, introducing significant adjustments aimed at ensuring player welfare. According to a statement released on Friday, the upcoming campaign will begin on Saturday, August 16, 2025, and conclude on Sunday, May 24, 2026.
One of the most notable changes involves the festive period, traditionally known for its packed schedule. For the first time, no two match rounds will take place within 60 hours of each other during this time. This decision addresses long-standing concerns about the demanding holiday fixture list, allowing players more recovery time. Additionally, there will be no games on Christmas Eve, a move welcomed by both players and fans.
The league emphasized its dedication to improving rest periods for players while maintaining an exciting and competitive schedule. The new calendar includes 33 weekends and five midweek match rounds, offering a balanced season for teams and supporters.
The August 16 start ensures players receive 83 days of rest following the conclusion of the 2024/25 season. Furthermore, the May 24 end date aligns with FIFA’s timeline, giving players ample preparation for the 2026 World Cup.
The release read, “The schedule continues to allow more rest time for players over the festive match-round period, with no two rounds taking place within 60 hours of each other.
“This is in keeping with commitments made to clubs to address the congested Christmas and New Year schedule.”
Key Highlights:
- The season spans 33 weekends and five-midweek match rounds, providing an evenly distributed calendar.
- The 16 August start date guarantees 83 days of rest for players following the conclusion of the 2024/25 campaign.
- The May 24 end date ensures the league concludes ahead of the FIFA 2026 World Cup call-up period, offering players ample preparation time for the global tornament.
