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FIFA Merges September and October International Windows From 2026, Creating a 16-Day Autumn Break

FIFA frames the longer block as a player-welfare measure, which European leagues and FIFPRO have challenged at the EU Commission.

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Justin Devenny (l., Nordirland) gegen Deutschlands Serge Gnabry
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Ab 2026 gibt es nur noch eine lange Länderspielpause statt zwei im Herbst.

Overview

  • From 2026 there will be one consolidated late‑September/early‑October window allowing four national‑team matches, with the separate November and March slots unchanged.
  • The reform, approved by the FIFA Council in 2023, is set to run through at least 2030 and is presented as reducing travel and improving planning clarity.
  • For the Bundesliga, the first interruption will arrive later in the season but last longer, taking out two consecutive weekends of league play.
  • Outlets report differing 2026 ranges for the extended window—such as 20 Sep–5 Oct, 21 Sep–6 Oct, or 23 Sep–8 Oct—while final 2026/27 domestic and UEFA calendars are still pending.
  • European Leagues and the players’ union FIFPRO have lodged a complaint with the EU Commission over the process; FIFA has rejected their claims.