During a special online ONE PIECE news event, Toei Animation announced a major reorganization of the anime’s production schedule, set to take effect in 2026 to coincide with the launch of the Elbaph Arc.
Series Producer Ryuta Koike confirmed that beginning in January 2026, ONE PIECE will adopt a two-cour (two-part) annual broadcast format, delivering approximately 26 new episodes per year. While this represents a reduction in the total number of episodes compared to previous years, Koike explained that the change is a strategic decision designed to advance and evolve the series. Historically, 11–12 episodes have adapted around 4–5 volumes of the manga; under the new structure, future episodes will more closely reflect the manga’s content, rhythm, and pacing while continuing to make full use of the creative possibilities offered by animation.
The revised production schedule will officially begin in April 2026, following a scheduled three-month hiatus from January through March.
New key visual for the Elbaph Arc:
New character visuals for the Elbaph Arc:
ONE PIECE European Official Instagram Account:
https://www.instagram.com/onepiece_eu_official/
