Why Boxing Day Looks Different in the Premier League This Season – and What Football Fans Can Still Watch Live?

Boxing Day has long been one of the most iconic dates in the English football calendar, usually packed with Premier League action from morning to night. However, the 2025/26 season breaks tradition in a major way — with just one Premier League fixture taking place on December 26. That lone top-flight match sees Manchester United host Newcastle United, making it the only Premier League game scheduled on Boxing Day this year.

What Changed This Season?

The reduced Boxing Day schedule is mainly down to fixture congestion and broadcast planning. With December 26 falling on a Friday, combined with the Premier League’s commitment to weekend-heavy scheduling and an expanded European calendar, there was limited room to place multiple matches on that date. As a result, the league allocated a single broadcast slot, which went to the high-profile clash between Manchester United and Newcastle United. All other Premier League fixtures from the same matchweek have been moved to the following Saturday and Sunday.

Is Boxing Day Football Really Gone?

Not at all. While Premier League action is minimal, football fans still have plenty to watch live on TV throughout the day.

  • Africa Cup of Nations matches are being shown free-to-air, featuring major international teams.
  • The EFL Championship, League One, and League Two deliver a full traditional Boxing Day programme.
  • High-interest fixtures, including Wrexham’s Championship match, are available on Sky Sports platforms.

So while the Premier League takes a step back for one season, the wider football calendar remains as busy as ever.

Will the Premier League Return to Normal on Boxing Day?

The league has already indicated that this change is temporary. When Boxing Day falls on a weekend in future seasons, fans can expect the familiar full schedule of Premier League matches to return.

In short, this season’s Boxing Day may look unusual at the top level — but the tradition itself is far from over.

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