The Fantasy Premier League (FPL) is a popular game that allows players to manage a virtual football team and compete against others based on real-life player performances. One of the key elements of FPL is the Bonus Points System (BPS), which awards extra points to players based on their match performances. The BPS has undergone several changes for the 2026/27 season, and these tweaks are set to have a significant impact on the game.
One of the most notable changes is the removal of the penalty for being tackled. In previous seasons, players would lose 1 BPS for every tackle they received, which often discouraged players from taking on opponents and dribbling the ball. However, this change should encourage more attacking players, such as wingers and full-backs, to take on defenders and potentially earn more bonus points. For instance, Aston Villa's Morgan Rogers, who was tackled 156 times last season, could be one of the main beneficiaries of this change.
Another significant change is the reduction in the reward for defensive actions such as clearances, blocks, and interceptions (CBI). Previously, players would earn 1 BPS for every two CBI, but this has now been changed to 1 BPS for every three CBI. This should slightly lessen the likelihood of centre-backs picking up bonus points, as they are the types of players who make the most CBI. However, it's worth noting that this change could also encourage more attacking full-backs and wing-backs to take on defenders and potentially earn more bonus points.
Goalkeepers have also been given a boost with the removal of the 'save from outside the box' metric. Previously, goalkeepers would earn 2 BPS for saving a shot taken from outside the box, but this has now been removed. Instead, goalkeepers will earn 2 BPS for any save, and an additional 1 BPS for saving a 'big chance'. This should encourage goalkeepers to make more saves and potentially earn more bonus points. For instance, Everton's Jordan Pickford, who ranked top with 28 big chance saves last season, could be one of the main beneficiaries of this change.
Overall, the changes to the BPS for the 2026/27 season are set to have a significant impact on the game. The removal of the penalty for being tackled, the reduction in the reward for defensive actions, and the boost for goalkeepers should all encourage more attacking players to take on defenders and potentially earn more bonus points. These changes are likely to shake up the FPL landscape and create new opportunities for players to succeed. Personally, I think this is a welcome development, as it should make the game more exciting and dynamic for players and spectators alike.
