Norwich City are set for an unconventional start to their 2026/27 season, as the English Football League (EFL) has confirmed that the League Cup will kick off the campaign. This significant shift means the Canaries will begin their competitive fixtures with a Carabao Cup match in early August, ahead of their Championship opener the following weekend. Read more about Canaries Target FA Cup Glory After Walsall Win.
The first round of the League Cup is scheduled for the weekend of August 7 to 9, taking precedence over Championship fixtures, which will commence from August 14 to 16. This change affects all three tiers of the EFL—Championship, League One, and League Two—who will adopt this newly synchronised calendar for the upcoming season. In contrast, the Premier League will start later in August, with top-tier clubs entering the Carabao Cup at the second round stage.
Last season, Norwich City began their Championship campaign with a home match against Millwall on August 9, establishing a precedent for league fixtures typically leading the way at the start of a season. However, EFL officials are actively exploring strategies to alleviate fixture congestion, which previously included discussions about a potential domestic start date as early as July.
The scheduling adjustments have also been influenced by the upcoming World Cup in North America. The league aims to ensure that teams can benefit from a full pre-season programme while accommodating the demands of the international tournament. The Canaries, eager to build on their recent performances and enhance their squad, will face an intriguing challenge as they adapt to this revised fixture list in preparation for the new season.
As Norwich City gear up for this unique journey, the League Cup match will serve as a crucial opportunity to establish momentum heading into the Championship. The club will be looking to make a statement from the outset, setting the tone for what promises to be an exciting campaign.