Particle.news

Download on the App Store

Premier League Omits Boxing Day Fixtures From 2025-26 Calendar

Player welfare concerns prompted the removal of the traditional Boxing Day round; broadcasters may still select games for live coverage on December 26.

Image

Overview

  • No Premier League matches are scheduled for December 26 in the 2025-26 season, marking a departure from a decades-long tradition.
  • Round 18 is officially slated for December 27 but remains available for broadcasters Sky Sports and TNT Sports to move select fixtures to Boxing Day.
  • Sky Sports and TNT Sports have until October 15 to finalise which matches, potentially up to four, will be shifted for live broadcast on December 26.
  • The league cited a congested festive calendar and the need for a minimum 48-hour recovery between games as key factors in dropping the default Boxing Day round.
  • The English Football League will run a full slate of Boxing Day fixtures, with all games set for live television.