What Are the Rules for Double and Blank Gameweeks?

In FPL, double and blank Gameweeks are important moments that can impact your season. To boost points during these periods, you need to understand the rules and strategies associated with them. Let’s delve into the details to help your team perform well in these Gameweeks.

What Are Double and Blank Gameweeks?

• Double Gameweeks: These occur when certain teams play more than one match in a single Gameweek. It usually happens because of fixture rescheduling, which is caused by cup competitions or unforeseen events.
• Blank Gameweeks: Generally, these happen when some teams do not have any fixtures in a Gameweek. This is often the case when matches are postponed and not rescheduled within the same Gameweek.

Rules for Double Gameweeks

Here are some rules for double Gameweeks:

Points Accumulation

Players who participate in matches during a double Gameweek can gain points for each match. This is a good opportunity to save extra points, especially if you are captain to a player who does well in both games. You can use our FPL Player Rankings to identify the top performers by position for the next five Gameweeks.

Using Chips 

• Bench Boost: Make sure this chip is activated during a double Gameweek to maximize points from all 15 players in your squad.
• Triple Captain: If you use this chip on a player with two fixtures in a Gameweek, you are likely to get an explosive score if they perform very well.

Planning Ahead

It is recommended to examine fixtures and form to know players likely to play more minutes in both matches. Also, consider rotational risks, especially for teams competing in multiple competitions. Tools like OPTA Match Stats, which provide live match data straight from the Premier League’s official statistics provider, can help you make informed decision.

Rules for Blank Gameweeks

The following are rules for blank Gameweeks:

Fielding a Full Team

It can be challenging to field a full team with fewer fixtures. So, consider strategic transfers and forward planning to ensure you have enough active players. Consult our FPL Guidebook for helpful tips on staying competitive during such weeks.

Free Hit Chip

This chip is very effective during a blank Gameweek. It gives you an opportunity to build a temporary team mainly for that Gameweek without affecting your original squad.

Squad Depth

Always have a strong bench as it can be a lifesaver in blank Gameweeks, especially if unexpected absences arise.

How to Manage Double and Blank Gameweeks

1. Fixture Analysis: Keep an eye on fixture announcements and updates to prepare for double and blank Gameweeks. Tools like the official FPL fixture tracker, combined with insights from Game Week Tips, can help you plan ahead.
2. Early and Late Transfers: Yes, early transfers can save money if player prices rise, but waiting closer to the deadline ensures you have the latest information on injuries and lineup predictions.
3. Don’t Over-commit: Relying too much on players from a single team can backfire if they don’t perform well or face rotation. Make sure your squad is diverse to reduce risks.

Pro-tip: To find balanced options within your budget, don’t hesitate to use our Transfer Wizard.