In a significant move to promote life-saving skills, English Football League (EFL) matches will commence one minute later than their scheduled times across a four-day period in early February. This initiative forms a crucial part of the Every Minute Matters campaign, which aims to raise public awareness about the importance of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and emergency response in critical situations.
Campaign Details and Schedule
The delayed kick-offs have been officially confirmed for thirty-six matches spanning the Championship, League One, and League Two divisions. The action will take place between Wednesday, 5th February and Sunday, 9th February 2026, with each game starting precisely one minute behind its usual time. This symbolic gesture is designed to highlight how every single minute can be vital in a medical emergency, particularly when someone experiences a cardiac arrest.
Tom Lockyer's Advocacy and Personal Experience
The campaign has gained powerful backing from Bristol Rovers defender Tom Lockyer, who now serves as an ambassador for the British Heart Foundation (BHF). Lockyer's involvement is deeply personal; he suffered a terrifying collapse on the pitch while playing for Luton Town in the Championship play-off final against Coventry City in May 2023. Subsequently, he experienced a cardiac arrest during a Premier League match at Bournemouth just seven months later, underscoring the unpredictable nature of such health crises in sports.
Lockyer has passionately urged fans, players, and the broader football community to support this life-saving initiative. "Everyone needs to get behind this," he emphasised, pointing out that increased CPR knowledge could make the difference between life and death in emergencies both on and off the field.
Broader Implications and Community Impact
This coordinated effort by the EFL and the British Heart Foundation seeks to leverage football's widespread appeal to educate the public. By integrating awareness into match schedules, the campaign hopes to reach millions of viewers and attendees, encouraging them to learn CPR techniques. The initiative also aligns with ongoing efforts in sports to improve safety protocols and emergency preparedness, following several high-profile incidents involving athletes.
Organisers believe that such high-visibility actions can significantly boost public engagement with health campaigns. The minute's delay serves as a poignant reminder of the urgency required in medical emergencies, potentially inspiring more people to undertake CPR training and contribute to safer communities.
