One Piece Anime Confirmed for April 5, 2026 Return, Kicking Off Elbaph Arc

Toei Animation has officially confirmed the return date for the One Piece anime, setting the series to launch directly into the highly anticipated Elbaph Arc on Sunday, April 5, 2026. This major announcement was paired with a new trailer released today, December 21, confirming the Straw Hats' next destination following the conclusion of the current Egghead Arc in Japan.

The promotional material immediately confirmed the focus, opening with the clear call: "Let's go to Elbaph!" The trailer offered glimpses of the legendary land of giants, showcasing massive landscapes and hints of colossal new threats awaiting the crew in the New World.

The anime adaptation is expected to closely follow Eiichiro Oda's manga, which is currently deep into the Elbaph lore starting around Volume 111. At the time of reporting, there have been no indications of filler material being introduced.

Elbaph has been a fixture in the series' background since the early days, most notably established through the memorable saga involving the giants Dorry and Brogy during the Little Garden sequence. The new arc promises to focus heavily on the sheer scale of the giant warriors and uncharted dangers within the New World.

Production remains firmly with Toei Animation, the studio that has handled the series since 1999. While specific staff details were not provided, the animation quality is expected to maintain the high standard set by recent arcs. Global streaming arrangements are still pending, but Crunchyroll is the likely primary platform for the broadcast.