After more than 25 years of continuous broadcasting, One Piece is entering a new era with a major change in its release schedule for 2026 — and fans are paying close attention to every detail. Here’s a complete guide to the One Piece anime schedule in 2026: what to expect, how many episodes, and where to watch.
Three-Month Hiatus at the Start of the Year
Before the new broadcast cycle begins, the One Piece anime will take a planned break from January through March 2026. This pause comes immediately after the conclusion of the Egghead Arc at the end of December 2025 and is designed to give the production team time to recharge and prepare for the next major storyline.
New Broadcast Format: 26 Episodes Per Year
Starting in April 2026, One Piece will shift to a seasonal format with a maximum of 26 new episodes per year, split across two cours (roughly two parts) instead of the weekly schedule it has had for decades. This change reflects a strategic decision by Toei Animation to better align the anime’s pacing with the manga and elevate the overall animation quality.
Instead of stretching content or relying on recap/filler episodes, each new episode in 2026 is expected to adapt more faithfully to the manga, giving fans a smoother and more detailed storytelling experience.
Elbaph Arc Begins in April 2026
The most anticipated part of the year for One Piece fans is the start of the Elbaph Arc, which officially begins airing on April 5, 2026. This arc takes the Straw Hat Pirates to Elbaph, the homeland of the giants, and marks a dramatic new chapter in Luffy’s journey.
Elbaph has long been an exciting part of the manga, and its anime adaptation will be the first major arc of the new broadcast format. New visuals released ahead of the arc also showcase updated character designs, including Luffy carrying a large axe — a symbol of the giants’ culture and a hint at the challenges ahead.
What the New Schedule Means for Viewers
Under the updated 2026 schedule:
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One Piece will air a maximum of 26 episodes annually, rather than 30+ episodes as in previous years.
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The series will premiere new episodes in two seasonal batches (cours), likely with short breaks between each.
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Each episode will aim to match the manga’s pacing more closely, with fewer filler or recap interruptions.
This approach follows a trend in modern anime production where seasonal formats are preferred to maintain high quality and clearer story progression.
Watching through legitimate platforms not only ensures the best video quality but also supports the creators and the continued success of the franchise.
The One Piece release schedule for 2026 marks a new phase in the anime’s broadcast history. With a three-month hiatus to start the year, a switch to seasonal production with up to 26 episodes, and the long-awaited Elbaph Arc premiering in April, 2026 promises to be one of the most exciting and pivotal years for One Piece in a long time.
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