Overview
- Multiple reports say just one Premier League game is likely on December 26, with the remaining nine fixtures expected on December 27–29, though the league has not yet confirmed its Christmas schedule.
- The constraint stems from rights deals that require 33 weekend rounds and only five midweeks, alongside expanded UEFA competitions and FA Cup rounds now reserved for weekends.
- The specific December 26 fixture and broadcaster have not been decided, with several high‑profile matches reported to be in contention for the slot.
- If implemented, it would be the fewest top-flight games on December 26 since the Second World War, and is widely described as a one‑off with Boxing Day falling on a Saturday in 2026.
- The EFL and National League plan full Boxing Day programmes, while most Premier League matches are expected to run over the Saturday and Sunday with one on Monday before another round begins on December 30.