Ahead of the holy month of Ramadan, England's top football competitions, the Premier League and the English Football League, will continue to have short iftar breaks during matches, maintaining the previous consistency. During this time, Muslim players and match officials will have the opportunity to break their fast.
Muslims abstain from food and drink from sunrise to sunset during the month of Ramadan. As sunset in the UK is usually between 5pm and 7pm, breaks may be required in certain kick-off matches, especially on Saturdays at 5.30pm and Sundays at 4.30pm.
According to the league authorities, play will not be officially stopped in the middle of the match. Instead, club captains and match officials will use normal breaks - such as goal kicks, free kicks or throw-ins - to provide an opportunity for iftar. This break cannot be used as a tactical time-out or team drinks break.
Before the start of the match, the two teams and match officials will discuss whether a break is needed and when it is likely to be possible.
This initiative was officially introduced in the Premier League for the first time in 2021. In April of that year, a precedent was set for an on-field iftar break during a match between Leicester City and Crystal Palace.
Bd-pratidin English/Lutful Hoque
