FIFA set to scrap October international break from 2026-27 season

According to 'Marca', FIFA has listened to club complaints about the disruption caused by frequent international breaks in the first half of the season and will change the international match calendar for the 2026-27 season. These breaks are often a headache for teams and players, who tend to accumulate niggles and injuries during this period.

The idea is to extend the first international window, like the one we've just experienced, to avoid a second one in mid-October. The proposed timeframe is from September 21st to October 6th, providing sufficient time for national teams to play the usual four matches. This would compress the schedule and minimise disruption when players return to their clubs.

The third international break in November will remain, with two more matches scheduled between November 9th and 17th. In Europe, this will conclude the Nations League qualifying phase.

These changes are a knock-on effect of the new Champions League calendar in 2026-27, which will start earlier, between September 8th and 10th. This is a week earlier than this year, and the final will be held on June 5th at the Metropolitano.