The Premier League and English Football League (EFL) have confirmed that matches will include brief pauses during Ramadan to allow Muslim players and match officials to break their fast after sunset. The EPL explained how the breaks will work: “Play will not stop while matches are in mid-flow. Clubs and match officials discuss the stoppage before each relevant match, agreeing on whether it will be required and roughly when it should happen. Notable Muslim players in English football include Mohamed Salah, William Saliba, Rayan Ait-Nouri, and Amad Diallo, all of whom could benefit from the mid-match breaks this month. The move reflects ongoing efforts by English football authorities to accommodate religious practices while maintaining the competitive integrity of matches.

Source: Punch February 16, 2026 21:36 UTC