Premier League to Pause Matches for Ramadan, Allowing Muslim Players to Break Fast
The Premier League and English Football League are set to resume their established procedures for Ramadan, with matches scheduled to pause briefly to enable Muslim players to break their fast during the Islamic holy month. According to reports from BBC Sport, Ramadan begins this week and will continue for nearly a month, during which Muslims fast from dawn to sunset.
Timing and Implementation of Match Pauses
With sunset in the United Kingdom typically occurring between 17:00 and 19:00 GMT during this period, the only fixtures likely to see a pause are those with Saturday 17:30 kick-offs and Sunday 16:30 kick-offs. The Premier League has clarified how these breaks will function in practice.
Play will not stop while matches are in mid-flow. Instead, at the earliest convenient moment, such as during a goal-kick, free-kick, or throw-in, players and officials observing Ramadan can take a brief pause to hydrate and replenish their energy levels.
Historical Context and Procedure Details
This procedure has been in place since April 2021, when a match between Leicester City and Crystal Palace was paused at a goal-kick to allow Muslim players to break their fast. On that occasion, the measure enabled Leicester's Wesley Fofana and Palace's Cheikhou Kouyate to hydrate and consume energy gels shortly after sunset.
Clubs and match officials discuss the potential stoppage before each relevant match, agreeing on whether it will be required and roughly when it should occur. The aim is to balance the flow of the game with respect for religious observance, ensuring minimal disruption while accommodating players' needs.
Official Statements and Goals
The Premier League has emphasized that these breaks are designed to be practical, brief, and respectful. "We want to make sure players can perform at their best while observing their faith. These breaks are designed to be practical, brief, and respectful," a spokesperson for the EPL stated.
This initiative reflects a broader commitment to inclusivity and support for diverse religious practices within professional football, allowing athletes to maintain their performance standards during Ramadan without compromising their spiritual obligations.
