FA Cup (England) 2026/27

The Football Association Challenge Cup stands as the oldest national football competition in the world. Founded in 1871 by the Football Association (FA), it was specifically proposed by FA Secretary C.W. Alcock. The tournament sits at the top of the domestic cup hierarchy in England, distinct from the Premier League and the EFL Cup. It is open to all eligible clubs down to Level 9 of the English football league system, currently involving approximately 732–747 clubs.

The format consists of qualifying rounds for non-league clubs at Levels 5–10, followed by the 'Proper Rounds' where Premier League and Championship clubs enter in the Third Round. The competition differs from the EFL Cup in its inclusivity and from the Premier League in its knockout nature. From the 2024–25 season, replays were abolished from the First Round onwards, with draws going directly to extra time and penalties. The semi-finals and final are played at Wembley Stadium.

Arsenal is the most successful club with 14 titles. Manchester City are the current holders, having won the 2026 edition by defeating Chelsea 1–0. The winner qualifies for the UEFA Europa League. Key historical reforms include the opening to professional clubs in 1883 and the entry of top-division clubs in the Third Round in 1925–26. The move of the final to Wembley took place in 1923.