In recognition of the holy month of Ramadan, the English Premier League (EPL) and the English Football League (EFL) have once again introduced a special measure to accommodate Muslim players. During selected matches, games may be paused briefly to allow players observing the fast to break their fast at iftar.
Ramadan, which begins this week, requires practicing Muslims to abstain from food and drink from dawn (Subh-e-Sadiq) until sunset. In the UK, sunset typically falls between 5:00 pm and 7:00 pm during this period. Consequently, matches scheduled on Saturday at 5:30 pm and Sunday at 6:30 pm may include short, discretionary stoppages to enable players to eat and drink.
Team captains and match officials are responsible for ensuring that these pauses are used exclusively for iftar purposes. These interruptions are not to be used as team drinks breaks or tactical time-outs. Matches will continue at a normal pace, with stoppages occurring only at appropriate moments to minimise disruption.
This initiative was first formally implemented in the Premier League in 2021. A notable example occurred in April of that year during the Leicester City vs Crystal Palace fixture, when Leicester’s Wesley Fofana and Palace’s Cheikhou Kouyaté broke their fast during a brief pause in play.
Several high-profile Muslim players are currently active in the Premier League, benefiting from this policy. Among them are Mohamed Salah (Liverpool), William Saliba (Arsenal), Ryan Nouri (Burnley), and Amad Diallo (Fulham).
The table below summarises key Muslim players in the Premier League and their clubs:
| Player Name | Club | Nationality | Position | Ramadan Participation Since |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mohamed Salah | Liverpool | Egypt | Forward | 2021 |
| William Saliba | Arsenal | France | Defender | 2023 |
| Ryan Nouri | Burnley | England | Midfielder | 2022 |
| Amad Diallo | Fulham | Mali | Forward | 2024 |
Football analysts suggest that these breaks provide crucial physical and mental support, allowing players to maintain energy levels and focus throughout matches. By respecting religious observances, the EPL and EFL are not only fostering inclusivity but also enhancing players’ well-being and performance on the field.
The measure has been widely praised within the football community as a progressive step toward accommodating religious diversity, reinforcing the leagues’ commitment to player welfare while maintaining the integrity and pace of the game.
