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Premier League to Pause Matches Briefly for Ramadan

 

The Premier League and English Football League (EFL) have confirmed they will again permit brief, in-game pauses for Muslim players to break their fast during the holy month of Ramadan, which begins this week and lasts until March 18, 2026.

Referees will identify natural, mid-game stoppages (e.g., goal-kicks, free-kicks) to allow players to drink water or consume energy gels at sunset.

The pause is intended to be a natural stoppage in play rather than a scheduled break. Team captains and match officials will agree on an approximate time for the pause before the game begins. Referees will then stop play during a natural break, such as a goal-kick or throw-in, to allow players to rehydrate or take energy supplements.

These pauses are exclusively for breaking the fast and not for team drinks or tactical discussions.

Procedure: Players and officials will agree beforehand if a pause is required. The stoppage will not be a formal "drinks break" but a quick, temporary pause in play.

Matches Affected: As sunset in the UK ranges from approximately 17:00 to 19:00 GMT during this period,, it mainly affects evening games like Saturday 17:30 or Sunday 16:30 kick-offs.

Implementation: This practice, which has been in place since 2021, ensures Muslim players can safely break their fast, supporting religious diversity in the leagues.

This inclusive measure allows players to compete at their best while observing their faith.

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