When Does the 2025–2026 Premier League Season Start? Full Breakdown of Dates, Fixtures, European Spots, and Relegation
The Premier League remains the most competitive and widely followed football league in the world. With its high-octane matches, historic rivalries, and relentless pace, fans across the globe eagerly anticipate the return of the English top flight each year.
Following a dramatic and unforgettable 2024–2025 season—where Liverpool clinched the title for the 20th time, matching Manchester United’s historic record—the focus now shifts to what lies ahead. As excitement builds, many are asking the same question:
👉 When does the 2025–2026 Premier League season officially begin?
Let’s dive into everything you need to know about the start date, fixture release, European qualifications, relegated clubs, and the promoted teams joining England’s football elite.
🗓️ Premier League 2025–2026 Start Date Confirmed
According to the official Premier League website, the 2025–2026 season is scheduled to kick off on Saturday, August 16, 2025. This date marks the beginning of another thrilling chapter filled with unpredictable drama, tactical battles, and breathtaking goals.
The final matchday of the season will be held on Sunday, May 24, 2026, ensuring a full schedule of competitive football over nine action-packed months.
📅 When Will the Fixtures Be Announced?
If you're already planning your matchday weekends or fantasy league strategy, mark this on your calendar:
The complete Premier League fixture list for the 2025–2026 campaign will be revealed on Wednesday, June 18, 2025.
This announcement is always a major talking point for fans, media, and analysts alike, as it sets the tone for the opening weeks and key clashes throughout the season.
🌍 Which English Clubs Have Qualified for European Competitions?
Based on final league standings and cup victories from the 2024–2025 season, several English clubs have earned their place in European football next season.
Here's a breakdown of the teams and the competitions they'll be competing in:
| Position | Team | European Competition |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Liverpool | UEFA Champions League |
| 2 | Arsenal | UEFA Champions League |
| 3 | Manchester City | UEFA Champions League |
| 4 | Chelsea | UEFA Champions League |
| 5 | Newcastle United | UEFA Champions League |
| – | Tottenham | UEFA Champions League (Europa League winners) |
| 6 | Aston Villa | UEFA Europa League |
| – | Crystal Palace | UEFA Europa League (FA Cup winners) |
| 7 | Nottingham Forest | UEFA Europa Conference League |
Thanks to Tottenham’s triumph in the UEFA Europa League, they have secured a spot in the Champions League, making it five English teams in Europe's top-tier competition—a significant boost for the Premier League’s continental reputation.
⚠️ Who Got Relegated to the Championship?
As always, not every club survives the intensity of the Premier League. At the end of the 2024–2025 campaign, three teams were relegated to the EFL Championship:
- Ipswich Town
- Leicester City
- Southampton
Their demotion underlines the ruthless nature of the Premier League, where even well-established sides must fight every season to retain their top-flight status.
⬆️ Who’s Coming Up to the Premier League 2025–2026?
Replacing those relegated clubs, three teams have earned promotion and will be competing in the 2025–2026 Premier League:
- Leeds United – Champions of the Championship
- Burnley – Runners-up
- Sunderland – Secured promotion via the playoffs
The return of Leeds and Burnley adds familiar faces to the league, while Sunderland’s comeback through the playoff route injects fresh excitement, especially given their passionate fan base and storied history.
With Liverpool reclaiming the crown, five teams in the Champions League, and historic clubs like Leeds and Sunderland back in the mix, the upcoming season promises unmatched excitement and high-level football.
Whether you're a die-hard supporter, a casual viewer, or a fantasy league enthusiast, the 2025–2026 Premier League is shaping up to be one of the most competitive yet.
Will Liverpool defend their title? Can Manchester City bounce back? Will newly promoted teams survive the pressure? The countdown has already begun—and the answers await on August 16th.