FPL 2026/27 Rule Changes Explained: Chips, Bonus Points and the Later Lockdown

Introduction

Fantasy Premier League has returned for 2026/27 with a mixture of familiar rules and important changes. The basic game remains the same: build a 15-player squad within a £100.0m budget, select a starting XI and captain, then manage transfers and chips throughout the season.

However, several changes could affect how points are awarded and when Gameweek scores become final. Understanding them before Gameweek 1 can prevent confusion later.

The Gameweek lockdown is now later

Gameweek scores will now be finalised at 09:00 UK time on the day after the final match of the Gameweek. Previously, the lockdown happened one hour after the final whistle.

The extra time allows post-match Opta reviews to be reflected in bonus points and defensive contribution points. A score that appears final on the evening of the last match may therefore still change before the new lockdown.

The practical lesson is simple: avoid treating your live rank or bonus points as completely settled until the Gameweek has officially closed.

Two sets of chips remain

Managers again receive two Wildcards, two Free Hits, two Triple Captains and two Bench Boosts across the season.

The first set must be used in the first half of the campaign and cannot be carried into the second half. Only one chip can be active in a single Gameweek.

This makes early chip planning more flexible, but it does not mean you should use a chip simply because it is available. A Bench Boost is only valuable when all 15 players have credible fixtures and realistic minutes. A Triple Captain needs a strong captaincy opportunity, not just a famous name.

Defensive contribution points stay

Defensive contribution points remain part of FPL. Defenders can earn two points by reaching 10 qualifying defensive actions in a match. Midfielders and forwards can earn two points by reaching 12 qualifying defensive actions.

This keeps centre-backs, ball-winning midfielders and hard-working forwards relevant even when they do not score or assist. It also means a cheap player with secure minutes and a strong defensive role can be more useful than a flashy attacker who is regularly substituted.

The Bonus Points System has changed

Players are no longer deducted one BPS every time they are tackled. This should help dribblers, attacking full-backs and creative players who frequently take opponents on.

Clearances, blocks and interceptions now earn one BPS for every three actions rather than every two. That slightly reduces the overlap between defensive contribution points and bonus points for centre-backs.

Goalkeepers now receive two BPS for any save, with extra recognition for saving a big chance. Penalty-save scoring inside the BPS has also been adjusted to account for that new big-chance reward.

Price changes and the official predictor

Player prices are locked until the Gameweek 1 deadline. Once the season begins, prices can move by £0.1m per day according to transfer activity.

The new official Price Change Predictor is intended to show which players are most likely to rise or fall at 00:00 UK time. It is a guide rather than a guarantee.

Price protection matters, but points should remain the main objective. Do not make an early transfer purely to save £0.1m when injuries, European matches or team news are still to come.

What the changes mean for your strategy

Prioritise secure minutes. Defensive contribution points, bonus potential and clean-sheet points all depend on players being on the pitch.

Do not panic when live bonus points move. The later lockdown exists because post-match data can change the final score.

Plan the first set of chips, but stay flexible. The best opportunity may only become clear after fixtures, injuries and team strength settle.