Changes to International Breaks Begin in 2026
Starting in 2026, the September international breaks will be extended, leading to the elimination of the October international break.
This adjustment is being made for several reasons, including the scheduling of the 2026 World Cup final, which is set for July 19, marking the latest date for a summer World Cup since 1966.
Discussions with stakeholders and FIFA's confederations also emphasized player welfare as a key factor in the decision.
Additionally, the change aims to address travel considerations, as reducing breaks will lessen the number of cross-continental journeys for players, particularly those from Africa or South America who play their domestic football in Europe.
Currently, there are five international breaks each year, lasting two weeks in March, June, September, October, and November, during which league football is suspended to accommodate international matches.
Exceptions occur during major tournaments such as the World Cup, Africa Cup of Nations, or European Championship.
Beginning next year, the September break will be lengthened, with no October break, while the November break will remain regular. This means a three-week gap for domestic matches in September, allowing countries to play four international matches instead of the usual two.
The FIFA Council approved this transition in March 2023, following consultations with representatives from all six FIFA confederations and relevant football stakeholders.
While the September break will be longer, the removal of the October break will ultimately result in one week less of the domestic season being lost to international fixtures.
What Will the International Calendar Look Like?
The extended September break and the cancellation of the October break mean that the final round of Premier League fixtures will occur on the weekend of September 19-20, 2026, with matches resuming on October 10-11, 2026.
This longer break will enable countries to play four matches during that period, instead of two, marking the first four group matches of the 2026-27 Nations League campaign for European nations.
The new international calendar will remain in effect until at least 2030.
Will There Be Extra International Matches?
No, the total number of matches played by countries will remain unchanged. Currently, nations compete in six matches across the September, October, and November windows.
This will continue in 2026, with four matches scheduled for the extended September break and two in November, compared to three breaks with two matches each in the past.
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