Refereeing in Ramadan

Alhamdulillah! The blessed month of Ramadan is upon us. For Muslims across the globe, these few weeks are a sacred time for worshipping Allah. They offer an opportunity for devotion, reflection and celebration of the mercy and love of Allah.

Fasting during Ramadan is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, and during daylight hours, adult Muslims and those who have reached puberty often abstain from eating, drinking and smoking.

Ramadan is set to begin on February 28th this year, lasting for around one month, expected to end on Sunday 30 March 2025, depending on the sighting of the moon.

Information on sunrise and sunset hours in Reading can be found here (sunrise-and-sunset.com). This site will allow you the ability to change the geographical area to gauge an accurate sunrise and sunset reading for the respective location of your game.

How might Ramadan affect football?

In grassroots football, any fixtures that fall within Ramadan can be played after sunset or delayed until after Eid al-Fitr and the end of Ramadan.

Some of our referees may not wish to take part in football during Ramadan, but we are keen to support those who do wish to remain involved.

If you are observing Ramadan and officiating a game that takes place during sunset, you are entitled to stop the game to break your fast and take on some food and water. You should also offer this break to players ahead of games that you officiate during Ramadan.

Any break in play should be agreed with both teams and communicated to players, coaches and other match officials before kick-off.

From receiving your appointments you have multiple opportunities to enquire about any players requiring a short stoppage, and faciliate an inclusive game for all. From confirming the appointment with club secretaries, arriving at the ground, to the exchange of team sheets.

The game needn’t be stopped precisely at sunset. Rather, take an opportunity moment during a sensible stop in play – a goal kick, for example – at or shortly after sunset to accomodate the needs of participants.

For more info, you can click here to read The FA’s guidance. Or contact the Committee at Reading RA

Ramadan Mubarak