FIFA Rule Change Creates Unprecedented 20-Day Israeli League Break

The Israeli Premier League is experiencing an unusually long 20-day break, the longest in its history, due to a significant rule change implemented by FIFA this season. The league's fifth round concluded on Sunday, with fans now facing a lengthy wait until October 10th for the next match. While international breaks are common early in the season, they typically last only 8-9 days, with about 12 days between the last league game before the break and the first game after it.

The extended hiatus stems from FIFA's decision to consolidate the September and October international windows into a single, longer break. Previously, teams played two matches in September and two in October. Now, starting September 21st, a single break will allow national teams to play up to four games, concluding on October 6th. This FIFA change aims to create a more continuous league schedule, addressing fan criticism about frequent interruptions early in the season.

Despite the FIFA break lasting 15 days, the Israeli league's pause extends to 20 days. This is partly because the league started its break slightly earlier to accommodate the Jewish holiday of Yom Kippur and because the return to play is scheduled for a Saturday, after the break officially ends on a Tuesday. This new FIFA system also ensures an additional league round can be played between the current break and the November international window.