The start of the new Russian Premier League season is set for July 19, 2024, according to RIA News. This kickoff marks the official return of top tier football in Russia, with clubs preparing for a campaign that promises intense competition and heated battles on the pitch.
For the 2024/25 season, the opening round is scheduled for July 19, as reported, with the first phase likely to extend through mid-December 2024. In a tightly packed schedule, teams will navigate a series of fixtures that will test depth, form, and strategic planning as the league seeks to balance domestic duties with evolving cup competitions and potential European ambitions. The cadence of matches in this initial period is designed to maximize competitive rhythm while allowing squads adequate recovery during the winter break.
The Russian Cup remains a highlight, with the final pitting the strongest performers from the RPL Road Play-offs and the Regions Road Play-offs against one another. The cup winner typically earns prestige and additional opportunities in the following season. The new edition of the Russian Cup is set to begin on July 23, aligning closely with the league calendar and offering chances for clubs to secure silverware early in the season.
As the standings stood after 18 rounds, Krasnodar led the table with 38 points, signaling strong form as the winter break approached. In the 18th round, a narrow 1-0 victory over CSKA underscored Krasnodar’s push for the title and momentum heading into the second half of the campaign. Zenit trailed by two points, remaining within striking distance, while Dinamo sat in third place with 32 points, keeping pace with the leaders and maintaining pressure on the title contenders.
Resumption for the 19th round will come in early March, as clubs return from the winter break to resume league duties. Alongside the league fixtures, mid-March will bring the quarter-final rematches of the Russian Premier League Road Cup, featuring clashes such as Spartak versus Orenburg, CSKA versus Rostov, Lokomotiv against Baltika, and Zenit taking on Dynamo. These rematches promise high-intensity football and the chance for teams to swing the balance in their favor in a knockout format.
In addition to the on-pitch developments, there has been commentary from former national team players about the first episode of the RPL’s new season, noting the surprises and standout performances that have already emerged. Such reflections offer fans a sense of anticipation and context for what lies ahead in the evolving league landscape.