FA Cup

The 2025–26 FA Cup marks the 145th edition of the world’s oldest national football competition. As ever, it promises a thrilling journey from the grassroots of English football to the iconic Wembley Stadium, where the final will be held on Saturday, 16 May 2026. This season continues to build on the FA Cup’s enduring legacy of surprise victories, legendary performances, and unforgettable moments.

Competition Format and Key Dates

The 145th edition of the Emirates FA Cup will run from 2 August 2025, beginning with the Extra Preliminary Round, through to the Final on Saturday, 16 May 2026 at Wembley Stadium. Major rounds are scheduled as follows:

Preliminary stages: August–October 2025

First Round Proper: Weekend of 1 November 2025

Second Round: 6 December 2025

Third Round (entry of Premier League & Championship clubs): 10 January 2026

Fourth Round: 14 February 2026

Fifth Round: 7 March 2026

Quarter-Finals: 4 April 2026

Semi-Finals: 25 April 2026

Final: 16 May 2026

As of this season, all ties from the First Round Proper onward will be decided on the day (no replays), speeding up the schedule and aligning the competition with league and European fixtures.

Record Participation and Grassroots Power

The FA Cup remains a symbol of open competition, and this year sees a record 747 clubs entering from across the English football pyramid. From village clubs to Premier League giants, the tournament celebrates the full spectrum of English football. Lower-league teams will once again have the chance to go toe-to-toe with established clubs, keeping alive the romantic appeal of giant-killing upsets that define the FA Cup spirit.

Crystal Palace: The Defending Champions

Crystal Palace enters the 2025–26 season as defending champions, having stunned Manchester City 1–0 in the 2025 final to lift the trophy for the first time in their history. Eberechi Eze’s goal and a heroic performance from Daniel Muñoz helped seal a famous win at Wembley. Palace’s triumph was a landmark achievement and secured them a place in European competition, although due to UEFA multi-club ownership regulations, their participation was redirected from the Europa League to the Europa Conference League.

Adjusted Schedule and Fixture Integration

The FA Cup’s scheduling has also evolved. The final will now take place before the final weekend of the Premier League season, ensuring it gets the spotlight it deserves. By reducing fixture congestion and removing replay matches, the FA aims to streamline the tournament and improve the experience for clubs, players, and fans alike.

What to Expect This Season

With the removal of replays, the stakes are higher than ever. Teams must go all-out for victory in every tie, which may lead to more open and attacking football. As always, the magic of the cup lies in its unpredictability—non-league clubs with ambition, top-flight teams looking to end silverware droughts, and the drama of knockout football will combine to create another unforgettable campaign.

Conclusion

The FA Cup 2025–26 is poised to deliver drama, upsets, and glorious football across all levels of the English game. With a revised format, historic champions, and fresh ambitions, this season promises to be one of the most exciting editions in recent memory. Football fans around the world will once again unite in watching dreams take shape on the road to Wembley.