The Scottish Premiership is gearing up for another thrilling season, and the anticipation is palpable. The fixtures for the 2026-27 campaign are set to be unveiled on Thursday, June 18th, at 12:00 BST, marking the beginning of a new chapter in Scottish football. This season promises to be a rollercoaster, with the possibility of more dramatic moments and unexpected twists. Here's a breakdown of what you need to know, and why it matters.
A Season of Uncertainty and Excitement
The 2025-26 season was a testament to the unpredictability of the Premiership, with Celtic's dominance finally broken by the underdogs of Hearts. This year, the landscape is shifting once more, with new teams entering the fray and old rivals vying for supremacy. The release of fixtures is a pivotal moment, setting the stage for the drama to unfold.
When and Where to Watch
Mark your calendars for June 18th! The SPFL will reveal the schedule for the first 33 rounds at the specified time. BBC Sport will be your go-to source, providing live updates and coverage as the fixtures are announced. Be sure to follow your favorite teams and enable notifications to stay in the loop.
Derbies and Away Days
The derbies, those intense encounters that divide the nation, will be a key part of the season. The question of whether they start with an away game hangs in the balance, adding an extra layer of intrigue. It's a delicate balance, as teams juggle their preparation and the demands of live television broadcasts.
Season Start and End
The Premiership season will commence on the weekend of August 1st-2nd, giving teams a chance to fine-tune their strategies. The final round of fixtures, round 33, is set for April 10th, with the post-split games concluding on the weekend of May 15th-16th. The play-off final, a battle for survival, will be a two-legged affair on May 20th and 23rd.
New Teams and Familiar Faces
St Johnstone will take the place of Livingston in the Premiership, having won the Championship and earned their promotion. St Mirren, on the other hand, secured their place by beating Partick Thistle in the play-off final. The rest of the division remains unchanged, keeping the competition familiar yet competitive.
No Winter Break
The Premiership will once again forgo a winter break, a decision influenced by the demanding European schedule. Celtic, the sole team guaranteed European football beyond qualifiers, will compete in the Europa League if they fall short in the Champions League play-offs. Hearts and Rangers have their own qualifying journeys, while Motherwell and Hibernian face off in the Conference League qualifiers.
The League Cup
The Premier Sports Cup, the League Cup, will commence on July 11th, providing a quick start for teams not involved in European competitions. Pre-season training is already underway, with friendlies and preparations in full swing. The group stage draw and schedule have been finalized, setting the stage for an exciting cup competition.
As the Scottish football season approaches, the excitement is palpable. The release of fixtures is just the beginning, and the journey ahead promises to be filled with drama, surprises, and unforgettable moments. Get ready for a season that will keep you on the edge of your seat!
