SUN
15TH FEB
16:30
The FA Cup is the oldest football competition in the world, founded in 1871, and remains one of the most prestigious and culturally significant trophies in English football. Officially known as the Football Association Challenge Cup, it is open to clubs from every level of the English football pyramid — from the Premier League down to grassroots non-league teams.
What sets the FA Cup apart is its open knockout format. There are no group stages, no second chances, and no protection for elite clubs. Every match can end a team’s run, which is why the competition has produced some of football’s most famous giant-killings, dramatic replays, and historic moments. For many clubs, a deep FA Cup run can define an entire season.
Despite changes to the modern football calendar, the FA Cup has retained its prestige. Winning the competition still carries enormous historical value and grants qualification for European competition, reinforcing its relevance at both domestic and continental levels.
In an era dominated by league formats and European tournaments, the FA Cup remains unique. It matters because it represents pure competition, where reputation offers no protection and every club enters on equal terms.
Key reasons the FA Cup continues to matter:
The FA Cup is also deeply tied to football culture in England. Early-round fixtures bring communities together, while later rounds capture national attention, particularly when underdogs progress deep into the tournament.
London plays a central role in the FA Cup every season. The capital is home to more professional clubs than any other city in England, meaning London teams are involved at every stage of the competition.
The tournament culminates at Wembley Stadium, which hosts both the FA Cup semi-finals and the final. The FA Cup Final at Wembley is one of the most watched annual football matches in the world and remains a cornerstone of the English sporting calendar.
London clubs have been heavily intertwined with the competition’s history. Arsenal are the record winners, while clubs such as Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspur, and West Ham United have all enjoyed significant FA Cup success. Earlier rounds are played across London’s smaller grounds, giving fans access to unique matchups and local derbies.
FA Cup ticket demand varies significantly by round:
The FA Cup Final is especially valuable due to limited availability, neutral venue allocation, and global interest. Hospitality packages are popular for Wembley fixtures, attracting domestic and international visitors.
For fans, the FA Cup offers one of the best value propositions in football, particularly in the early stages where ticket prices remain accessible.
The FA Cup enjoys extensive domestic and international broadcast coverage, with matches shown live across multiple platforms from the early rounds onwards. The final is broadcast globally, reinforcing the competition’s place in football history.
Beyond viewing figures, the FA Cup’s cultural impact is significant. It remains one of the few competitions that can unite fans across divisions, regions, and generations, preserving a sense of tradition within the modern game.