Key Takeaways
- English Premier League matches will observe short pauses at iftar time when Muslim players are fasting.
- The protocol was first implemented in April 2021 during a Leicester City vs. Crystal Palace match.
- The break allows players to consume liquids and energy gels before resuming play.
The English Premier League will continue its tradition of pausing matches during the holy month of Ramadan to allow Muslim players to break their fast at sunset, according to British media reports.
The BBC confirmed that before each fixture, match officials will determine whether any participating players are observing the Ramadan fast.
If fasting players are on the pitch at iftar time, the referee will temporarily stop the game to enable them to break their fast with liquids or energy gels.
Play resumes shortly after.
This considerate protocol was first observed in April 2021 during a Premier League match between Leicester City and Crystal Palace.
The game was briefly paused to allow Leicester’s Wesley Fofana and Palace’s Cheikhou Kouyate to break their fast. Both players consumed refreshments on the sideline before returning to action.
Ramadan is a month of spiritual reflection, self-discipline, and personal growth for Muslims worldwide.
The Premier League’s accommodation of fasting players reflects growing awareness and respect for religious observance within the sport.
Similar practices have been adopted by other football leagues across Europe, ensuring that Muslim athletes can maintain their spiritual commitments while competing at the highest levels.

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