The next international break is upon us but many have been left wondering, why is September’s hiatus longer than previous years? Here at BetVictor News, we’ve taken a closer look.
As usual, European football – as well as all the major leagues across the globe – will be entertaining a rest throughout the remainder of this month. During the break, the Nations League takes centre stage throughout the continent with the likes of England, Scotland, Wales, Ireland and Northern Ireland all in action.
Next International Break – Explaining September’s Lengthy Pause
With the 2026 World Cup finishing later than usual – on July 19 this summer – participating players didn’t return to their clubs at the same time as those who weren’t present in North America. That is one of many reasons the next international break in September has been extended.
With Nations League betting set to be prioritised over the next three weeks, England will be playing four games – starting with world champions Spain on September 26. There is nothing new about internationals being played towards the end of the ninth month of the year.
However, what FIFA have recently penned is the extended break so it effectively wipes out October’s internationals as well. In layman’s terms, the two international breaks have been combined. Not only does this help protect player welfare (reducing the number of long haul flights etc) it means the top European league’s don’t entertaining too many pauses.
Is There An International Break In November?
Typically, the old format of international breaks saw the major leagues pause for approximately two weeks in September and the same in October. The new deal that FIFA have devised will run until at least 2030. Meaning the extended September break is here to stay for the next four years as a minimum.
In terms of the next international break in November, that will remain as it always has. There has always been a 10-12 day break from club action. For those curious, March’s international break will also remain unaffected. The late summer changes should – in theory – suit football betting customers.
As a point of reference, England will play just the two games over November compared to the four in September. That is simply owing to the fact the new format has combined two windows and the same will apply for the March break in 2027 (two fixtures).
What Are The Dates For This Season’s International Breaks?
The combined September/October international break will run from 21/09/2026 – 06/10/2026. As early stated, the vast majority of nations will be playing four games across that time frame. For November’s edition, that break will run from 9/11/2026 – 17/11/2026.
March will see a pause between 22/3/2027 – 30/3/2027 and in June, the hiatus will run from 7/6/2027-15/6/2027. However, the summer internationals will not affect club football as the seasons will have already concluded by this point.
2026-27 international break overview
- 21 September–6 October 2026
- 9–17 November 2026
- 22–30 March 2027
- 7–15 June 2027
If you intend to bet on the Nations League then please take the time to read through BetVictor’s safe and responsible gambling page which will provide good advice on how to stay in control when betting on football.
Any betting decisions should be made responsibly and there are no guarantees when it comes to match outcomes. All odds correct as of 10am on September 21, 2026 and are subject to change.
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