The Premier League and the English Football League will again pause matches during Ramadan to allow Muslim players to break their fast at sunset.
Ramadan is a holy month observed by Muslims worldwide, requiring fasting from dawn to sunset. In the United Kingdom, sunset during this period falls roughly between 5 pm and 7 pm GMT. As a result, only certain weekend fixtures, including some Saturday evening and Sunday late afternoon kick offs, are expected to need brief stoppages.
As in previous seasons, referees and team captains will coordinate before matches to identify a natural break in play for fasting players or officials to take fluids or energy supplements. Play will not be stopped during active phases but paused at the earliest suitable moment, such as a goal kick, free kick, or throw in.
The first formal Premier League Ramadan pause came in 2021 during a match between Leicester City F.C. and Crystal Palace F.C., when players were allowed to break their fast mid game.
Several Muslim players currently feature in the league, including Mohamed Salah, William Saliba, Rayan Ait-Nouri, and Amad Diallo.
Former Everton F.C. midfielder Abdoulaye Doucoure praised the league’s approach in a 2023 interview with BBC Sport, saying players are fully supported in observing their faith, including access to halal meals and flexible travel arrangements.
Liverpool F.C. has also adjusted training schedules in past seasons to accommodate Muslim players observing Ramadan. The coordinated pauses are now an established feature of English football during the holy month.
