Hong Kong's football clubs are facing uncertainty regarding the start of the new season, but they are moving forward with player acquisitions. The delay in confirming the season's commencement is causing some anxiety among clubs, players, and fans alike. Despite the lack of a definite schedule, teams are actively engaging in player recruitment to strengthen their squads for the upcoming campaign.
The Hong Kong Premier League (HKPL), the top-tier football league in Hong Kong, is organized by the Football Association of Hong Kong, China. The inaugural season began in September 2014. For sponsorship reasons, it is also known as the BOC Life Hong Kong Premier League. The 2024–25 season recently concluded with Tai Po securing their second title.
Currently, 10 teams participate in the HKPL. These teams include Eastern, Lee Man, Eastern District, HKFC, Kowloon City, North District, Rangers, Southern, and Tai Po. Each team also has an Under-22 team that participates in the Hong Kong U22 League.
The start of the 2024-25 season was in late August. The opening match was held on August 30, 2024, at Mong Kok Stadium, featuring Eastern against BC Rangers. There were also matches on August 31, 2024, where Kwoon Chung Southern played against Lee Man at Aberdeen Sports Ground, and Crownity North District played against Kitchee at North District Sports Ground. On September 1, 2024, Tai Po faced the newly promoted Kowloon City at Tai Po Sports Ground.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding the new season's start date, several clubs are actively involved in the transfer market, aiming to bolster their squads with new talent. These signings indicate a strong commitment to competing effectively in the upcoming season, whenever it may commence.
Adding to the excitement for football fans in Hong Kong is the Hong Kong Football Festival 2025 (HKFF), which will be held at Kai Tak Stadium. The festival will feature Liverpool FC, AC Milan, Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur. Liverpool will play against AC Milan on July 26, 2025, and Arsenal will face Tottenham Hotspur on July 31, 2025. There will also be open training sessions.
