The A-Leagues and Professional Footballers Australia (PFA) will continue supporting players and match officials observing Ramadan during Isuzu UTE A-League and Ninja A-League matches.
This year, Ramadan – which begins today – falls across Rounds 18–21 in the Isuzu UTE A-League and Rounds 18–19 in the Ninja A-League.
First introduced in 2023/24, the policy allows clubs or match officials to request a special break after sunset so players can break their fast. Requests must be submitted to the Match Commissioner 90 minutes before kick-off alongside the player selection list, for any match in-play during sunset. The break – approximately 90 seconds – is held at a mutually-agreed time when the ball is out of play in a neutral position, with time added on accordingly. Any player or official breaking their fast must remain on the field of play.
A-Leagues CEO Steve Rosich said: “Ramadan is a significant celebration for many players, fans and match officials. This policy is important to safeguard the wellbeing of observing players and match officials, and demonstrates our ongoing commitment to create an environment where everyone feels accepted and included within our game.”
PFA Chief Executive Beau Bush added: “We strongly support the continuation of in‑play breaks for players observing Ramadan, and always support initiatives that acknowledge that players are people first. Our aim must be to ensure all players feel supported and respected in the A-Leagues.”
Central Coast Mariners player Ali Auglah said: “Observing Ramadan is an incredibly important practice to me, my family and all my brothers and sisters who are practising this month. Providing a break during the game for players observing the fast makes a difference in performance, and I take this opportunity to thank the A-Leagues, the clubs and the PFA for working together to help support the Muslim players within the A-Leagues.”
