The Premier League is set to stage only one fixture on Boxing Day 2025, breaking a decades-long football tradition due to fixture congestion and broadcast contract commitments.
The Premier League is expected to host only one fixture on Boxing Day this season, marking the fewest top-flight games on December 26 since 1945, according to The Times.
With Boxing Day falling on a Friday this year, nine other matches are likely to be rescheduled for the weekend of December 27–29. The report notes that “the ritual of watching football on Boxing Day is under threat this season,” as the Premier League faces pressure from existing broadcast contracts.
Officials are said to be in a “difficult position” because the league is required to play on 33 weekends each season, leaving limited space for midweek fixtures amid expanded UEFA competitions and FA Cup commitments.
In contrast, the English Football League (EFL) and National League will continue their full Boxing Day schedules. The Premier League’s decision, however, means fans could experience the quietest festive football period in 80 years.
The identity of the single Boxing Day fixture is yet to be confirmed, with final schedules expected to be announced at least six weeks in advance. Despite the disruption, most Premier League clubs are due to return to action from December 30 as part of the packed holiday calendar.