When Leeds United released their 2026/27 schedule, the reaction wasn't just about who they're playing—it was where. The club is taking the Premier League stage global, kicking off a high-profile pre-season tour across the United States before settling into a grueling domestic campaign that includes early clashes with Liverpool and Manchester United.
The fixtures were published on the official club site and the Premier League portal, confirming a busy summer for supporters. But here's the twist: this isn't just a standard European tour. Leeds are heading to Tampa, New Jersey, and Chicago, blending commercial expansion with competitive preparation in a way few English clubs attempt.
A North American Summer Tour
The pre-season begins late July, but not in the usual training grounds of Austria or Germany. Instead, Leeds United will travel to Florida for an away friendly against Wrexham FC. The match is scheduled for July 25, 2026, at 14:30 local time at Raymond James Stadium, Tampa, Florida.
Why Wrexham? It’s a clash of narratives—two historic clubs with massive global fanbases and recent ownership-driven rebrands. Then, five days later on July 30, Leeds fly north to Harrison, New Jersey, to face Sunderland at the Sports Illustrated Stadium. Kick-off is set for 23:30 local time (which translates to a morning kick-off back in the UK), offering a unique viewing window for transatlantic fans.
The tour culminates in August with two heavyweight friendlies. On August 2, Leeds play Liverpool at Soldier Field in Chicago, Illinois, at 20:00. This is followed by a massive showdown against Manchester United on August 12. That match moves to Dublin, Ireland, at Croke Park, kicking off at 19:30. According to broadcast listings from Live-FootballOnTV, the Man Utd vs Leeds friendly will be shown live on MUTV, giving United fans exclusive access while Leeds supporters may need to rely on alternative streams or attend in person.
Premier League Campaign Begins in August
Once the dust settles from the US and Ireland tours, the real work begins. The 2026/27 Premier League season starts in earnest for Leeds in late August. Their first league fixture is an away trip to Nottingham Forest at The City Ground on Saturday, August 22, at 15:00 BST.
Turns out, the early schedule is brutal. Just one week later, on August 29, Leeds host Brentford at Elland Road in Leeds, West Yorkshire, also at 15:00. September brings more tests: an away game against Brighton & Hove Albion on September 5, followed by a home clash with Newcastle United on September 12. Both matches are slated for the traditional 15:00 Saturday slot, meaning no TV delays—but also no guaranteed prime-time visibility unless broadcasters intervene.
Here’s the thing about these dates: they’re packed. With only a week between each fixture, squad rotation will be critical. Managers will need to balance freshness with form, especially after the physical demands of the international tour.
Broadcasting and Viewing Options
If you're wondering how to watch, the landscape is fragmented. In the UK, Premier League matches are split between Sky Sports and TNT Sports. For cup competitions, ITV and BBC pick up Carabao Cup and FA Cup games respectively. Peacock holds rights for some US broadcasts, as seen in earlier scheduling leaks for March 2026 fixtures.
For the pre-season friendlies, options vary. The Liverpool match in Chicago likely has local US coverage, while the Croke Park game against Manchester United is confirmed for MUTV. Fans should check Sky Sports and TNT Sports apps closer to the date for any last-minute changes, as fixture times are subject to alteration based on broadcasting decisions.
Recent Form and Context
To understand the stakes, look at the end of the previous season. LiveScore data shows mixed results: a heavy 3-0 defeat to West Ham United, a narrow 1-0 win over Brighton, and a 3-1 victory against Burnley. These results highlight inconsistency—a theme Leeds must address if they want to compete in the top flight.
The January 2027 fixture list adds another layer of pressure. A home match against Everton at Elland Road is scheduled for January 2, 2027, at 15:00. Another encounter with Everton is listed away at Hill Dickinson Stadium in Liverpool, though the exact date remains unconfirmed in current snippets. Given the historical rivalry, these matches could define the second half of the season.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I watch Leeds United's pre-season matches?
Coverage varies by opponent and location. The friendly against Manchester United at Croke Park on August 12, 2026, will be broadcast on MUTV. Other US-based friendlies may have limited streaming options; check local sports networks like Peacock for potential coverage. Always verify with the club's official website for updates.
What is Leeds United's first Premier League match of 2026/27?
Leeds United's opening Premier League fixture is an away game against Nottingham Forest at The City Ground. It is scheduled for Saturday, August 22, 2026, with a kick-off time of 15:00 BST. This marks the start of their competitive season after the pre-season tour.
Are all fixture times fixed?
No. As stated on the official Leeds United website, all fixture times are shown in local time and are subject to change. Broadcasters often delay matches for TV coverage, so fans should monitor official channels for any updates closer to the match date.
Who are Leeds United's biggest rivals in the 2026/27 schedule?
Key rivalries include matches against Manchester United (friendly in August and potentially in January), Liverpool (pre-season friendly), and Everton (two Premier League fixtures). These games carry significant historical weight and will be closely watched by fans and pundits alike.