EPL introduces Ramadan breaks to support fasting players

The Premier League and English Football League (EFL) have announced that some matches will include short breaks during Ramadan to allow Muslim players and match officials to break their fast after sunset.

Ramadan, the Islamic holy month, involves fasting from dawn to sunset and begins this week, lasting about a month. In the UK, sunset usually occurs between 5:00 pm and 7:00 pm GMT during this period. The matches most likely to have pauses are Saturday 5:30 pm and Sunday 4:30 pm kick-offs.

The leagues explained that play will not stop immediately. Instead, at convenient moments—like a goal-kick, free-kick, or throw-in—Muslim players and officials can take a brief break to drink water or consume energy gels.

This procedure has been in place since April 2021. In a match between Leicester City and Crystal Palace, players Wesley Fofana and Cheikhou Kouyate were allowed to hydrate and eat shortly after sunset.

Before each relevant match, clubs and officials discuss whether the pause is needed and when it should happen, aiming to balance the flow of the game with respect for religious practices.

The Premier League said, “We want players to perform at their best while observing their faith. These breaks are practical, brief, and respectful.”

Notable Muslim players in English football who may benefit include Mohamed Salah, William Saliba, Rayan Ait-Nouri, and Amad Diallo.

This move highlights the ongoing effort of English football authorities to accommodate religious practices while keeping the competition fair.