Christmas Day has passed, the turkey’s been eaten, and you’ve spent two days cooped up with family. What could be better than getting out to enjoy some live sports – and maybe take a break from the relatives?
Boxing Day is full of exciting sporting events, from traditional football matches to horse racing and live rugby – there’s plenty to see and experience in person.
It’s a great option for families looking to entertain kids and teens, and if you had a quiet Christmas, it’s a fun way to enjoy a lively atmosphere.
As a huge sports fan, I’ve put together a list of some of the most exciting live matches happening this year. I’ve even included details on where you can still snag tickets to see them in person!
What sport is played on Boxing Day?
Boxing Day is famous for football, with many families having a match on TV while enjoying the day. However, it’s also a day for other sports as well.
The Gallagher Premiership Rugby league usually has at least one game on Boxing Day, and horse racing is also a popular tradition. This year, you can also find live snooker and ice hockey if you’re looking for something a little different.
Best UK Boxing Day fixtures to watch live in 2025
Boxing Day football
Boxing Day is famous for its packed schedule of football games, and this year is no different with matches happening all over the country. We’ve chosen a few highlights to focus on.
Manchester United v Newcastle United
- Where is it? Old Trafford
- What time is it? 8pm
The sole Premier League game scheduled for Boxing Day is Manchester United hosting Newcastle United at Old Trafford. Tickets are currently limited to club members, though hospitality packages are available starting at £199 through Seat Unique.
Portsmouth v Queens Park Rangers
- Where is it? Fratton Park
- What time is it? 3pm
Portsmouth and QPR last met on the Championship in February this year, with Portsmouth winning 2-1.
Coventry City vs Swansea City
- Where is it? Coventry Building Society Arena
- What time is it? 3pm
Coventry and Swansea haven’t squared up since February when Coventry came home with a 2-0 lead.
MK Dons vs Swindon Town
- Where is it? Stadium MK
- What time is it? 3pm
Milton Keynes will play Swindon Town on Boxing Day in a League Two match. They’re also scheduled to compete against each other next week in the group stage of the Football League Trophy.
Bristol Rovers vs Bromley
- Where is it? Memorial Stadium
- What time is it? 3pm
Bromley and Bristol are meeting again soon, after Bromley lost a close 2-1 game against them last November.
Boxing Day rugby
Sale Sharks vs Harlequins
- Where is it? CorpAcq Stadium
- What time is it? 5:30pm
On Boxing Day, the Sale Sharks will take on Harlequins in Manchester, in the only game taking place in the Gallagher Premiership that day.
Cardiff Rugby v Dragons RFC
- Where is it? Cardiff Arms Park
- What time is it? 3pm
Cardiff Rugby and Newport Dragons RFC will face off in a highly anticipated Boxing Day derby as part of the Welsh rugby season.
Other Boxing Day sport
The Seniors Snooker British Open
- Where is it? Vaillant Live, Derby
- What time is it? 12pm/6pm
The World Seniors Snooker tour has announced the British Seniors Open will be held from December 26th to 28th, 2025. Play will begin on Boxing Day with two sessions, followed by the semi-finals on the 17th and the final match on the 28th.
Steelers v Panthers ice hockey
- Where is it? Utilita Arena Sheffield
- What time is it? 4pm
Nottingham Panthers defeated Sheffield Steelers 4-2 in their previous game, and a rematch on Boxing Day promises to be a great contest.
Kempton Park Ladbrokes Christmas Festival
- Where is it? Kempton Park
- What time is it? All day
The Ladbrokes Christmas Festival is a two-day event in December featuring twelve excellent jump races, highlighted by the renowned Ladbrokes King George VI Chase.
Aintree William Hill Boxing Day Racing
- Where is it? Aintree Racecourse
- What time is it? All day
As a racing fan, I always look forward to the William Hill Boxing Day meet. It’s a really full card, featuring some exciting contests like the Formby Novices’ Hurdle and the National Hunt Flat Race – plenty to keep you glued to the screen!
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2025-11-11 20:15