Holesky and Hoodi Testnet Updates

Following configuration challenges on Sepolia and a critical validator exit queue on Holesky that may take up to a year to clear the Ethereum Foundation has launched Hoodi, a dedicated testnet for Pectra validator lifecycle testing. Hoodi activates the Pectra upgrade on March 26, 2025, offering a clean slate for staking operators and infrastructure developers. Holesky remains available for testing non-validator aspects of the upgrade through September 2025.

Key Ideas

Validator Testing Blocked on Holesky: A backlog of exits renders Holesky impractical for full validator lifecycle testing.
Hoodi as the New Validator Testnet: Hoodi supports timely Pectra feature development, helping maintain upgrade momentum across Ethereum’s infrastructure landscape.