FPL bonus points: the ranking, tied awards and the Gaffer difference
Updated · Published by Gaffer
Fantasy Premier League (FPL) uses its Bonus Points System (BPS) to rank player performances in each match, then award three, two and one bonus points to the leading ranks. The BPS score and the bonus points are different numbers. Gaffer uses its own Bonus Index, so a Gaffer bonus award is not an official FPL award.
Separate the ranking score from the award
BPS combines match actions into a performance score. That score determines the ranking; the fantasy bonus added to a team is the resulting award. A large ranking score is not added directly to the fantasy total. When comparing two screens, check whether each displays the underlying index, awarded bonus or total fantasy points.
How tied awards work
| Ranking situation | Bonus awards |
|---|---|
| No tie among the first three | 3, 2, 1 |
| Two players tied for first | 3, 3, 1 |
| Two tied for second | 3, 2, 2 |
| Two tied for third | 3, 2, 1, 1 |
These are rule examples, not a result from a particular match. Ties occupy ranking places. That is why a tie can change the distribution without changing the published three-point maximum for a player in that match. Check the whole set of leading ranks when investigating an award.
Use the current season rules
For 2026/27, the Premier League changed several BPS inputs, including the treatment of being tackled, defensive clearances and goalkeeper saves. The linked official explanation gives the current weights. An older screenshot or a previous-season calculator may apply a different formula, even when it uses the same BPS name.
Record the season and whether the figures are live or final when making a comparison. If the numbers change after a match, first check whether the source updated a match action or whether you were comparing a provisional ranking with a final award. A changed total alone does not identify the cause.
Gaffer Bonus is a separate calculation
The Classic rules publish the Gaffer Bonus Index inputs and weights. Gaffer calculates that index from its match data and applies its own ranking. The familiar 3/2/1 shape does not mean that the underlying inputs, corrections or winners must be identical to official FPL.
Use Gaffer player pages to understand Gaffer results. Use the official game for official FPL awards. When discussing a difference with your group, include the game, round, match and whether the points were final. That small amount of context is more useful than comparing two unexplained totals.
Questions people ask
Does a BPS score go straight into my fantasy total?
No. BPS is the performance ranking used to decide the bonus award. The ranking score is not the awarded bonus.
Can more than three players receive bonus in one match?
Yes. A tie for a qualifying rank can produce more recipients. The tied-rank examples above show how those places are allocated.
Are the bonus numbers on Gaffer official FPL bonus?
No. Gaffer Bonus follows its published calculation. Use the official game when you need the official FPL awards.
Sources and rules
References checked
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