There are traditions that are not lost. This Thursday will be December 26, and for many Football fans, it coincides with a day of matches, after two days (or more) of dieting.
Boxing Day is a classic of the Premier League season. And here's what you need to know.
Beware of error. Football fans have gotten into the habit of referring to Boxing Day as the entire holiday period during which the Premier League holds several of its meetings.
Except that Boxing Day is only December 26. And not another day.
Boxing Day is a public holiday in the United Kingdom and Commonwealth countries. And its origin is not at all linked to sport. It is precisely its nature as a public holiday that gave it this custom.
Historically, the name is linked to the gifts received by servants from their bosses on Boxing Day in the 19th century. A box, in which they could find food, gifts or various money to thank them for their work.
Another theory suggests that the term could also find its roots in the exit of the churches, which opened their “trunks” into which donations were slipped for the poorest.
Very quickly, however, football was added to the day of December 26. The first official football match in history took place on December 26, in 1860. It pitted Sheffield FC, the first club, against Hallam FC. Like a symbol.
But it's not just football that is associated with this day. December 26 is also traditionally the first day the sales start. Among others.
Playing the day after Christmas is a tradition. For everyone, not just Premier League footballers.
Indeed, in the second, third or fourth divisions, which are also professional, there are championship matches.
But that's not all: right down the English football pyramid, December 26 is a match day. Amateurs are therefore also concerned.
And this attracts audiences at all levels.
From 1:30 p.m. to 11 p.m., the most diligent will be served. This Thursday, it is possible to play more than ten consecutive hours with Premier League matches.
