The Premier League and English Football League (EFL) will introduce pauses during matches throughout Ramadan to allow Muslim players to break their fast, in a move that balances sporting competition with religious observance.
The policy represents a significant step in accommodating the religious practices of Muslim footballers who choose to observe the holy month of Ramadan, during which adherents abstain from food and drink from dawn until sunset. The decision acknowledges the growing diversity within English football and the challenges faced by players who maintain their fast while competing at the highest levels.
Under the new arrangement, matches will be briefly paused at an appropriate time after sunset to allow Muslim players to break their fast with dates and water, following the traditional Islamic practice known as iftar. The breaks are expected to last only a few minutes and will be incorporated into the natural flow of the game to minimize disruption.
Football authorities worked closely with Muslim players, coaches, and Islamic scholars to develop the policy, ensuring it respects religious requirements while maintaining the integrity and flow of matches. The timing of breaks will be coordinated with sunset times, which vary throughout Ramadan and across different locations in England.
The initiative has been welcomed by Muslim players and community organizations, who view it as an important recognition of religious diversity in professional football. Several high-profile Muslim footballers have previously spoken about the challenges of balancing their faith with the demands of elite competition, particularly during Ramadan when physical performance can be affected by fasting.
Medical staff and sports scientists have also supported the measure, noting that allowing players to break their fast and rehydrate during matches can help prevent dehydration and maintain performance levels, ultimately benefiting player welfare and safety.
The Premier League and EFL join a growing number of sporting organizations worldwide that have implemented similar accommodations for Muslim athletes during Ramadan. FIFA has previously allowed breaks during international matches for this purpose, setting a precedent that domestic leagues are now following.
Managers and coaches have expressed support for the policy, with many noting that it demonstrates respect for players’ beliefs while ensuring fair competition. Some have pointed out that the brief pauses may also provide tactical opportunities, though the primary purpose remains religious accommodation.
The implementation of Ramadan breaks reflects broader efforts within football to promote inclusion and diversity. English football has increasingly recognized the importance of accommodating players from various cultural and religious backgrounds, contributing to a more welcoming environment for all participants.
Critics of the measure have raised questions about potential disruptions to match flow and whether similar accommodations should be extended to other religious observances. However, football authorities have emphasized that the breaks are minimal and that the policy represents a reasonable adjustment to support player welfare and religious freedom.
The timing of the breaks will be managed by match officials in consultation with team representatives, ensuring they occur at natural stoppages in play where possible. Broadcasters have been informed of the policy and are prepared to incorporate the breaks into their coverage.
As Ramadan approaches, the football community will be watching to see how the new policy works in practice and whether it serves as a model for other sports and leagues seeking to accommodate religious observance while maintaining competitive standards.
