Ħamrun Spartans launch title defence against Tarxien Rainbows on August 18
The 2025/2026 Malta Premier League, now sponsored by YoHealth, will kick off with a high-profile clash between Valletta and Birkirkara on Saturday, August 16, at the National Stadium.
Read: YoHealth signs record agreement to become Malta Premier title sponsors.
Valletta, under the guidance of coach Thane Micallef, return to the top-flight after a one-year absence in the BOV Challenge League.
The Citizens are eager to make a strong statement on their return and will relish the opportunity to open their campaign against fierce rivals and last season’s runners-up, Birkirkara.
Birkirkara, meanwhile, enter the domestic season after a disappointing exit from the UEFA Conference League.
The Stripes had defeated Petrocub of Moldova in the first leg but were ultimately eliminated in the first qualifying round. The Stripes, still coached by Stefano De Angelis, are one of the title contenders and will look to start the league on a positive note.
Also on Saturday, Żabbar St Patrick face Sliema Wanderers.
Sunday’s fixtures include Marsaxlokk taking on Mosta, while Floriana face Naxxar Lions.
Floriana are recovering from their second-qualifying round exit in the UEFA Conference League, having been knocked out by FC Ballkani of Kosovo.
On Monday, August 18, reigning champions Ħamrun Spartans begin their title defence against newly-promoted Tarxien Rainbows. The Spartans are again expected to be among the front-runners and will look to kick off their campaign in style.
The round concludes with Hibernians playing against Gżira United. Hibernians, like Floriana, exited Europe in the second qualifying round after a defeat to Spartak Trnava.
The second matchday begins on Friday with Sliema Wanderers and Mosta facing off in the only match of the day.
On Saturday, Tarxien Rainbows will take on Floriana, followed by a clash between Birkirkara and Gżira United.
Sunday features Żabbar St Patrick against Hibernians, while Naxxar Lions play Marsaxlokk. One of the highlights of the early season comes on Monday when Ħamrun Spartans meet Valletta in what promises to be a highly-anticipated encounter at the National Stadium.
However, this match could be rescheduled, depending on Ħamrun’s European commitments, as they are expected to play in a UEFA Europa League or Conference League play-off just three days later.
It is understood discussions are ongoing between Ħamrun Spartans, Malta Premier League and Valletta FC on the matter.
Matchday 3, set between Thursday, August 28, and Sunday, August 31, will begin with Birkirkara taking on Hibernians. Sliema Wanderers will then face Tarxien Rainbows.
The Victor Tedesco Stadium will also see action for the first time this season, hosting Żabbar vs Naxxar on Friday and Ħamrun Spartans vs Mosta on Sunday.
Following Matchday 3, the league will pause for the September international break. During this window, Malta will face Lithuania in a crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier.
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