The Egyptian Premier League is set to kick off its 2026-2027 season with an exciting new format featuring 20 clubs. The league’s organizing body has confirmed that all teams will compete in a unified first phase, where each club plays 19 matches, totaling 190 games. This stage aims to rank teams fairly before moving into the decisive final groups.
Match Timing and Broadcast Details
To ensure maximum fan and television coverage, the league has set fixed kickoff times. On regular days, matches will start at 5:00 PM and 8:00 PM local time. During the holy month of Ramadan, kickoffs will be adjusted to 9:30 PM to accommodate iftar times and allow fans to attend matches comfortably.
Where to Watch
All Egyptian Premier League matches will be broadcast on the official sports channels that hold the league’s rights. Viewers can expect comprehensive coverage, including pre-match analysis and post-match highlights, across these channels. The exact channel numbers and streaming platforms will be announced closer to the season start.
New League Format: Two Groups After the First Phase
After the initial 19 rounds, the 20 teams will be split into two groups based on their standings. This structure is designed to increase competitiveness and drama throughout the season.
Championship Group (Top 6)
The top six teams from the first phase will enter a championship round, playing each other home and away in a double round-robin format. This means each team will play an additional 10 matches, totaling 15 games in this group. The team that finishes first will be crowned the Egyptian Premier League champion. Additionally, the final standings will determine which clubs qualify for CAF competitions, including the CAF Champions League and the CAF Confederation Cup.
Relegation Group (Bottom 14)
The remaining 14 teams, from 7th to 20th place, will be placed in a large group. Here, the battle will be intense as clubs fight to avoid relegation to the second division. This group will feature 91 matches, with every point crucial for survival. Given the close level of competition among these teams, fans can expect thrilling encounters throughout this phase.
Relegation and Promotion Rules
At the end of the 2026-2027 season, four teams will be relegated to the Professional League (second division). Meanwhile, only three clubs will be promoted from the second division. This adjustment means that the 2027-2028 season will feature just 19 teams, as part of a gradual reduction plan to reach an optimal number of clubs in the coming years.
Standings and Season Outlook
The league standings will be updated after each round, reflecting the tight competition expected across all groups. With the new format, every match carries significant weight, whether it’s a title decider or a relegation six-pointer. Fans can follow the live standings on the official league website and sports news platforms.
As the season approaches, clubs are preparing their squads and strategies to adapt to the demanding schedule. The Egyptian Premier League promises to deliver high-quality football, dramatic moments, and intense rivalries, making it a must-watch for football enthusiasts across the region.