FIFA Confirms New International Break Format Starting 2026
FIFA has officially announced a major change to the international match calendar that will reshape how clubs and national teams handle their schedules.
Starting from the 2026/27 season, the traditional September and October international breaks will be merged into one extended window, running from September 21 to October 6, 2026.
This new arrangement will allow national teams to play up to four matches during the period, instead of spreading fixtures across two separate windows in September and October.
The November and March breaks will remain unchanged, ensuring players and clubs still have some balance in the calendar.
FIFA believes this new format will reduce player travel, minimize disruption to club competitions, and give coaches more time to work with their squads during international duty.
The decision has already sparked reactions across the football world. While some clubs welcome fewer interruptions to their league seasons, others are concerned about player fatigue from potentially playing four matches in such a tight window.
One thing is certain – the 2026/27 campaign will usher in a new era for international football scheduling.
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