A landmark moment unfolded in the Isuzu UTE A-League on Friday night, as the action was paused during Melbourne City’s clash against Macarthur FC to allow Muslim players the chance to break their fast in the holy month of Ramadan.
Throughout Ramadan, official stoppages will be implemented to enable players and match officials observing the festivities to break their fast during games in both the Isuzu UTE A-League Men and the Ninja A-League Women.
In 2025, Ramadan spans from Rounds 21 to 24 in the Isuzu UTE A-League Men, and from Rounds 17 to 21 in the Ninja A-League Women.
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During Ramadan, observed by Muslims globally, fasting occurs from dawn until dusk; for players and match officials in the A-Leagues, their opportunity to break their fast typically coincides with evening fixtures that align with sunset.
The inaugural official Ramadan break of 2025 was seen in the first half of the encounter between Macarthur and City at AAMI Park, featuring three Muslim athletes: City defender Samuel Souprayen along with Macarthur players Kevin Boli and Saif-Eddine Khaoui in the Round 22 match.
Ramadan breaks are initiated as soon as possible after sunset whenever the ball is out of play in a neutral position, provided the agreed time has elapsed, with the following stipulations:
- Players and Match Officials must remain on the pitch;
- Substitutes and Officials sitting on the bench should stay within the technical area;
- The match clock continues to run, with additional time added on as necessary, and;
- The Referee will indicate when 15 seconds remain, prompting players to return to their positions on the field.
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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