The 2026-27 football season is officially under way, with the qualifying rounds of the Champions League, Europa League, and Conference League all starting this week www.bbc.co.uk .

Both the Premier League and all three divisions in the English Football League will commence in August, alongside the EFL Cup www.bbc.co.uk . The full league phases of the Champions League and Europa League are scheduled to begin in September, with the Conference League following in October www.bbc.co.uk .

The Premier League is set to kick off on Friday, 21 August 2026, with the final matchday taking place on Sunday, 30 May 2027 www.bbc.co.uk . The Championship will begin slightly earlier on Friday, 14 August 2026, while League One and League Two will both start on Saturday, 15 August 2026 www.bbc.co.uk .

Domestic cup competitions also have their dates locked in. The FA Cup first round will commence on Saturday, 7 November 2026, culminating in the final on Saturday, 22 May 2027 www.bbc.co.uk . Meanwhile, the EFL Cup first round will take place between Friday, 7 August and Monday, 10 August 2026, with the final scheduled for Sunday, 21 March 2027 www.bbc.co.uk .

Official Source Verification

BBC Sport has officially published the comprehensive key dates for the upcoming 2026-27 football season, providing fans and clubs with a definitive roadmap for the year ahead.

For the complete breakdown of all league, cup, and European competition dates, please consult the primary source publication.

Read the full official report on BBC Sport