NEW YORK (Thursday, February 19, 2026) - Ramadan, the ninth month on the Islamic calendar, is a holy time in which Muslims fast during daylight hours (sunrise to sunset), perform extended prayers, increase their charitable efforts and bring about introspection.
Observers of Ramadan refrain from consuming food and drinks during daylight hours. At sundown, individuals can break their fast and eat or drink again.
In recognition of this time, and the players, coaches and officials who observe, Major League Soccer instituted a policy in 2023 that allows for a pause in matches played during Ramadan for players and on-field officials to break their daily fasts, as needed. This year, we anticipate that some players and officials in MLS will once again fast from sunrise to sundown. Â
If an on-field player or official will be breaking their fast during a match, a ‘drinks break’ will be implemented following sundown, allowing for participants to receive hydration and nutrition.Â
This initiative not only acknowledges the importance of Ramadan for those who observe but also showcases the league's commitment to supporting its athletes, coaches and officials in maintaining their spiritual and physical well-being.
Based on a lunar calendar, Ramadan began at sundown on February 17 and will conclude on March 19.
What is Ramadan: Observed by nearly 1.9 billion Muslims worldwide as a month of fasting, from dawn until sunset, practicing Muslims abstain from food and drink, focusing on spiritual growth and community.
The Significance of Pausing Play: By pausing play, MLS is ensuring that Muslim athletes, coaches, and officials can maintain their health and performance while honoring their religious practices in a respectful manner, fostering a culture of understanding and respect among all players and fans.
Pause in Play Process:
- Prior to each match, clubs will alert league officials to any individuals who are fasting and will break their fast during the match.
- If participating players and/or officials are on the field following sundown, the referee will institute a ‘drinks break’ not to exceed 60 seconds, preferably during the first stoppage in play following sundown.
- All players from both clubs and match officials are permitted to receive hydration and nutrition during the break.
- Any time lost for the ‘drinks break’ will be added to the end of the half in which the break took place.
- In cases where sundown is scheduled to happen within four (4) minutes after the scheduled kick time (for example, 7:44 p.m. sundown for a 7:40 p.m. kickoff), a delayed kickoff may be implemented to avoid the need for a drinks break.
About Major League Soccer
Headquartered in New York City, Major League Soccer -- celebrating its 31st season in 2026 -- features 30 clubs throughout the United States and Canada. All MLS and Leagues Cup matches can be watched on the Apple TV app on Apple devices, smart TVs, streaming devices, set-top boxes, and game consoles, and the web at tv.apple.com, and features the most expansive and accessible lineup of programming ever for MLS fans. For more information about MLS, visit mlssoccer.com. For more information about the Apple TV app, visit apple.com/apple-tv-app.
