The September 2025 international window is now at an end, and fans can turn their attention back towards the early part of the European club season and the business end of campaigns in North and South America.
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 are now just two 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.
So, when does international football return? The Sporting News 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 October 6 to October 14, 2025. It will be the second 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) |