The Fantasy Premier League (FPL) is gearing up for another exciting season, and the 2026/27 edition promises some intriguing changes to the Bonus Points System (BPS). This system, which awards extra points to players based on their performance, is set to undergo several modifications aimed at enhancing the game's dynamics and rewarding a wider range of players. Here's a deep dive into the key changes and their potential impact.
A Shift Towards Attacking Players
One of the most significant changes is the intention to limit the overlap between defensive contribution (DC) points and bonus points. This means that players who excel in defensive actions, such as clearances, blocks, and interceptions, might see a reduction in their bonus points. The goal is to encourage more attacking players to shine, as evidenced by the removal of the penalty for being tackled. This change will benefit flair players who dribble more often, such as wingers and full-backs, allowing them to take on opponents without facing a penalty in the BPS.
Attacking Full-Backs in the Spotlight
The most-tackled players from the 2025/26 season reveal a trend of attacking midfielders and full-backs dominating this category. Players like Morgan Rogers, Antoine Semenyo, and Jeremy Doku were frequently tackled, indicating their involvement in high-pressure situations. This change in the BPS will likely elevate the status of these attacking full-backs, who are already known for their dynamic play and ability to create chances.
Rewarding Goalkeepers Differently
Goalkeepers will see a shift in how their saves are rewarded. Previously, they earned 3 BPS for saving shots inside the box and 2 BPS for saves outside the box. However, this system didn't account for saves made without an opponent taking a shot. To address this, goalkeepers will now earn 2 BPS for any save, with an additional 1 BPS for saving a 'big chance'. This change ensures that goalkeepers are recognized for their contributions, even when they don't result in direct shots on goal.
Balancing the Defensive Actions
Defensive actions like clearances, blocks, and interceptions (CBI) have been a significant part of the BPS, but they were also a source of overlap with DC points. To address this, the BPS has been adjusted so that players now earn 1 BPS for every three CBI, instead of every two. This change slightly reduces the likelihood of centre-backs earning bonus points, as they tend to make the most CBI. It's a subtle shift that could lead to a more balanced distribution of points across different player roles.
Conclusion: A More Dynamic Fantasy Game
The changes to the Bonus Points System for 2026/27 aim to create a more dynamic and engaging Fantasy Premier League experience. By rewarding attacking players more generously and rebalancing the defensive actions, the game encourages a style of play that is both exciting to watch and rewarding for managers. These modifications are a testament to the FPL's commitment to innovation and ensuring that every player has the opportunity to shine.
As an FPL enthusiast, I'm particularly excited about the potential for goalkeepers to become more prominent in the points race. The new system for rewarding saves and big chances could lead to some surprising performances and keep managers on their toes. The game is evolving, and these changes are a step towards a more inclusive and thrilling Fantasy Premier League experience.
