When is the next international break? FIFA match calendar, key dates for World Cup qualifiers in 2025/26

Brad Cox

When is the next international break? FIFA match calendar, key dates for World Cup qualifiers in 2025/26 image

Soccer fans have only one more international window to navigate in 2025 — albeit a very important one.

International breaks are not always greeted warmly by those whose interests are largely based on club teams, but this year's have particular importance. There is now just one more to go before the draw for the 2026 FIFA World Cup takes place in December, meaning qualifying is approaching the critical stages.

These are also opportunities for teams to start fine-tuning their preparations for the finals in the United States, Canada and Mexico next year. Mauricio Pochettino has plenty to work out for the USMNT, and both Argentina and Brazil are already thinking ahead to how best to challenge for the trophy.

The best teams in Africa are also beginning to plan for the Africa Cup Of Nations, which takes place in December and January. The likes of Nigeria also have the small matter of a World Cup playoff stage to navigate over the next month.

So, when does international football return? AllSportsPeople has the details on the FIFA calendar below.

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When is the next international break?

The next international break will take place from November 10 to November 18, 2025. It will be the third FIFA window of the new European club season and will include World Cup qualifiers and friendly matches.

Every international break in 2025/26: Schedule of windows for World Cup qualifying

Below is a list of the dates for the international match calendar up to the beginning of the 2026 World Cup.

September 1-9, 2025
October 6-14, 2025
November 10-18, 2025
December 21, 2025-January 18, 2026 (AFCON)
March 23-31, 2026
June 1-9, 2026
June 11-July 19, 2026 (World Cup)

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