Overview
- Only one Premier League fixture is being played on December 26, with the remaining nine matches of the round scheduled across December 27–29.
- League officials attribute the pared-back slate to fixture congestion driven by expanded European tournaments, FA Cup calendar changes and TV obligations.
- The decision has drawn criticism from fans and was raised in Parliament through an interpellation.
- The Premier League characterizes the reduced Boxing Day program as a calendar-driven exception and says the traditional format can return when dates allow.
- Lower divisions are proceeding with full Boxing Day programs in the Championship, League One, League Two and the National League, giving them greater visibility.