The month of Ramadan is upon us, taking place between 10th March and 9th April, with clear implications for Muslim players, match officials and volunteers. Read on for our guidance on how you can support the Muslim members of your club.


One of the focuses during Ramadan is on fasting (one of the 5 pillars of Islam), which involves abstaining from eating or drinking during daylight hours. Clearly, this has implications for Muslim players, match officials and club staff, particularly on evening games when the fast can end during the match. It is therefore important that for the evening matches where this may occur, an opportunity during a natural stoppage in play is created to allow fasting players and match officials to come to the side of the pitch and quickly take on liquids or any energy supplements.
  
It is advised that for these games we suggest that referees use the team sheet exchange to determine if any players require a short pause to break their fast and agree the approximate time that the pause will take place. Similarly, match officials should also have the opportunity to break their fast and the referee will ensure that appropriate arrangements are made to facilitate this.

For more helpful advice on how you can support those observing Ramadan, take a look at the documents below.

fa guide to ramadan

prayer guidance

player considerations